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Borealis: Arctic Expeditions

Lucky Duck Games, Gémklub, Kobold Spieleverlag · Board game · 2026
2–4 · best 2 45 min Weight 2.3/5
— rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Buy
— rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Buy Ask about Rules
Our Verdict

Fans of light but strategic games will love Borealis. It's like a dynamic puzzle where you slide scientists around the Arctic taking photos of cute animals!

Highlights
  • Fun and unpredictable sliding mechanic
  • Charming theme with lovely art
  • Good balance of luck and strategy
  • Multiple scoring paths
Keep in mind
  • Can feel too random for some
  • Not very deep strategically
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In Borealis: Arctic Expeditions, you lead a team of scientists on an Arctic adventure to photograph the region's cutest animals. The game blends abstract strategy with a charming theme, where each played card might send your researchers sliding across the board - but only if the colors match! The 'slide' mechanic creates funny and unexpected situations as you try to align vehicles, complete objectives, and form specific animal patterns for end-game bonus points. There's even a race to see who gets the best shots first! The game is quick (45 minutes max) but packed with interesting decisions, especially in hand management. Who will capture the perfect northern lights shot with a bonus polar bear?
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Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Mechanics

End Game Bonuses Hand Management Open Drafting Pattern Recognition Race Set Collection Slide / Push Track Movement Variable Set-up Victory Points as a Resource

Categories

Abstract Strategy Environmental

Families

Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Misc: LongPack Games Occupation: Researcher / Scientist Region: Arctic Theme: Photography
Publisher Lucky Duck Games, Gémklub, Kobold Spieleverlag
Designer Dariusz Mindur
Artist Ariadna Żytniewska, Inês Toczyska, Kevin Sidharta, Rodrigo Camilo Alves De Almeida
Community
694 owners
0 wishlist
0 played
694 interactions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players is it best with?
Works well with 2-4. With 2 it's more strategic, with 4 more chaotic and fun.
Is it good for casual gamers?
Yes! Rules are simple and the theme helps a lot. Great for family or non-hardcore gamers.
How long does a game take?
About 30-45 minutes depending on player count and group experience.
Is there a lot of luck involved?
Some luck in card draws, but good decisions make a big difference.
Does it need a lot of table space?
Each player has a small board, so it takes reasonable but not excessive space.
Worth it for heavy gamers?
If you want deep complexity, maybe not. But it's a great 'palate cleanser' between heavier games.
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