Bios: Mesofauna

Ion Game Design, Sierra Madre Games · Board game · 2022
1–4 · best 3 Solo 90–120 min Weight 3.6/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 41.97
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Enjoyed the scientific and evolutionary vibe of the BIOS series but want something a bit more straightforward? Bios: Mesofauna is the right pick! It brings ecosystem simulation and evolution with a more accessible touch, without losing the depth we love.

Highlights
  • Engaging evolutionary simulation
  • Streamlined ruleset
  • Dynamic modular board
  • Strong scientific theme
Keep in mind
  • Complexity still present
  • Learning curve
  • Can be intimidating
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you dig the scientific and challenging vibe of the BIOS series but found Megafauna a bit too... grand, then Mesofauna might be your new favorite! Think of it as a more accessible and focused version of the experience, where you'll dive into the evolution of smaller, but no less important, creatures on a constantly changing planet. This game keeps the essence of ecosystem simulation and evolution but with a leaner ruleset and fewer elements to manage. The goal is to attract a wider audience without losing the depth that fans of the series expect.

The modular board ensures that each game is a new adventure, with different configurations for you to explore. You'll use the open drafting mechanic to grab the best cards and actions, all while competing for area control and trying to adapt your species to drastically changing climate and environmental conditions. It's an evolutionary race where only the most adaptable survive and thrive. Player interaction is tense, as one player's decisions affect everyone's ecosystem.

Bios: Mesofauna is a game that rewards strategic planning and the ability to adapt to the twists of fate (and the climate!). If you enjoy games with strong themes, clever mechanics, and a challenge that keeps you thinking for hours, this is a sure bet. It's a great entry point to the BIOS series or a fantastic addition for existing fans.

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 OK
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Insects Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Misc: LongPack Games Series: BIOS (Phil Eklund) Theme: Biology Theme: Evolution
Publisher Ion Game Design, Sierra Madre Games
Designer Jon Manker, Phil Eklund
Artist Madeleine Fjäll

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Is Bios: Mesofauna an expansion for Bios: Megafauna?
No, Bios: Mesofauna is a standalone game. It shares many mechanics and the general theme with Bios: Megafauna but was designed to be played separately and has a more streamlined ruleset.
What is the main difference between Mesofauna and Megafauna?
The main difference is the focus and complexity. Mesofauna concentrates on smaller creatures and has leaner rules, aiming to be more accessible than Megafauna, which deals with larger animals and has a more extensive ruleset.
Can I play Bios: Mesofauna solo?
Yes, the game supports a solo mode for 1 player, allowing you to explore evolution and ecosystem simulation at your own pace.
Is the game very difficult to learn?
While more accessible than Megafauna, Bios: Mesofauna is still a game with a certain complexity, typical of the BIOS series. It rewards strategic planning and adaptation, so it might take a few plays to fully master.
How long does a game session last?
Bios: Mesofauna games typically last between 90 and 120 minutes, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules.
Who would you recommend Bios: Mesofauna for?
We recommend it for players who enjoy games with strong scientific themes, ecosystem simulation, and evolution, and who appreciate mechanics like area control and open drafting. It's great for fans of the BIOS series looking for a slightly quicker experience, or for those wanting to enter the series through a more accessible entry point.

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