Wouter & Ymke 
Grab your tools and get ready to dig into the world of Fossilis, a game where players take on the role of intrepid paleontologists on the hunt for the ultimate dig site! You’ll clear away rugged terrain, gather valuable fossil fragments, and uncover long-lost bones to showcase in a prestigious museum. Compete over four rounds, utilizing actions, market cards, and dinosaur research to rack up points and emerge as the top fossil hunter!
2-5 players, ages 8+
Playing time: 45-60 minutes
Designer: David Alberto Diaz
Artwork: Apolline Etienne
Publisher: Happy Meeple Games
https://www.happymeeplegames.com/
⏳ In Fossilis, players take turns moving their paleontologist, shifting terrain tiles, and gathering plaster to extract bones and fragments from the play area. Each action requires energy, which is spent by the players depending on the choices they make.
🌲 Moving terrain tiles costs energy based on the terrain type and may result in bumping other players, causing them to fall off the play area or into dig holes previously created. These holes contain valuable archeological treasures, such as skulls, teeth, or ribs, which can be extracted by spending plaster.
🔍 After collecting bones, players can research dinosaurs and score points by delivering the fossils to the museum. Throughout the game, players will also find fragments of eggs, amber, and footprints, which can be used to purchase new tools and supplies from the market. These acquisitions help players collect items faster and score more points.
🦖 The game concludes when the plaster supply is depleted for the 4th time. Players then tally their points for the different dinosaur types they’ve researched. Each dinosaur has three specifications: food source, era, and living area. Points are awarded based on the majority and quantity of these specifications that each player has collected.
🏆 The player with the most points at the end of the game is declared the winner, having successfully contributed the most to the museum’s exhibit and furthering the understanding of these prehistoric creatures.
🦴 Fossilis is a captivating set collection game that brings the excitement of paleontology to life for both kids and adults. With exceptional components, stunning artwork, and a theme that sparks the imagination, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who loves dinosaurs or archaeology.
🎨 The game’s presentation is top-notch, featuring beautifully designed artwork and high-quality components transporting players to an enthralling prehistoric dig site. The three-dimensional Game Trayz dig site is not only visually appealing but also functional and well-integrated with the game mechanics. With tweezers in hand, players will find great satisfaction in skillfully extracting fossils from the dig site, bringing an interactive and tactile dimension to the game.
👨👩👧👦 Fossilis is incredibly accessible, thanks to its clear rulebook and straightforward gameplay. It’s an excellent family game that’s enjoyable for kids and adults alike. For younger players, some game elements can be removed to simplify the experience, while the six mini-expansions offer added variety and complexity for those seeking a more challenging game.
🦖 The game’s strategic elements and engaging mechanics also make it fun for adults. Players must plan and time their actions carefully to ensure they have enough plaster and are in the proper position to collect the fossils they need. The end-game scoring keeps players invested as they compete for majorities in different dinosaur specifications and sets of the same types.
🎯 In conclusion, Fossilis offers an entertaining experience that will appeal to anyone with a passion for dinosaurs or archaeology. Its blend of eye-catching components, engaging gameplay, and accessible design makes it a great addition to any family’s game collection. Don’t miss out on the chance to embark on this thrilling prehistoric adventure with Fossilis!
*Disclaimer: We received a review copy of the game from the publisher.
