Cartographers Heroes

Thunderworks Games, Arclight Games, Buró · Board game · 2021
1–100 · best 4 Solo 30–45 min Weight 2.0/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 12.99
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for spatial puzzle lovers and those looking for a fast game that scales to any group size.

Highlights
  • Addictive drawing mechanic
  • Excellent solo experience
  • Quick and simple setup
  • High replayability via component mixing
Keep in mind
  • Relys on card draw luck
  • Paper sheets run out quickly
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ever dreamed of being Queen Gimnax's royal cartographer? In Cartographers Heroes, you're granted that honor, but the mission is far from peaceful. You're tasked with mapping the expedition to the Western Lands, a region ravaged by war and haunted by the menacing Dragul forces. Your goal is to chart the journey, following the queen's edicts and documenting the deeds of the brave heroes defending Nalos.

The game uses a 'flip-and-write' system: a card is flipped, and all players simultaneously draw the indicated shape on their maps. The real challenge lies in spatial management—you need to fit these shapes into your grid as efficiently as possible to maximize points, much like a strategic game of Tetris.

As the sequel to the critically acclaimed Cartographers, this version introduces fresh content: brand new map sheets, updated scoring cards, exploration cards, and ambush cards that introduce unique abilities and unexpected twists. One of the best features is its versatility: Cartographers Heroes can be played as a standalone experience or mixed with components from the original game to create a wider variety of gameplay possibilities.

Whether you're playing solo to test your skills or with a massive group (since the player limit is practically infinite), the tension of trying not to cross the map borders while chasing end-game bonuses makes every line count. It's a fast-paced, addictive game, perfect for those who love spatial puzzles blended with a fantasy setting.
Expansions
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Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 BEST
5 REC
6 REC
7 REC
8 REC
9 REC
10 REC
11 OK
12 OK
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14 OK
15 OK
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17 OK
18 OK
19 OK
20 OK
21 OK
22 OK
23 OK
24 OK
25 OK
26 OK
27 OK
28 OK
29 OK
30 OK
31 OK
32 OK
33 OK
34 OK
35 OK
36 OK
37 OK
38 OK
39 OK
40 OK
41 OK
42 OK
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46 OK
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48 OK
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53 OK
54 OK
55 OK
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57 OK
58 OK
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60 OK
61 OK
62 OK
63 OK
64 OK
65 OK
66 OK
67 OK
68 OK
69 OK
70 OK
71 OK
72 OK
73 OK
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75 OK
76 OK
77 OK
78 OK
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80 OK
81 OK
82 OK
83 OK
84 OK
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95 OK
96 OK
97 OK
98 OK
99 OK
100 OK
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Game details

Families

Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Components: Polyominoes Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: Yucata Game: Cartographers Mechanism: Flip-and-Write Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Setting: World of Ulos
Publisher Thunderworks Games, Arclight Games, Buró, Gameland 游戏大陆, Gen-X Games (GenX), Grok Games, Hobby World, Intrafin Games, Ludofy Creative, Mandoo Games, Ogry Games, Outland, Pegasus Spiele, Raven Distribution, Reflexshop, Rexhry
Designer John Brieger, Jordy Adan
Artist Davey Baker, Lucas Ribeiro
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the first game to play this?
Nope! It works perfectly as a standalone, but if you own the first one, you can mix the components for more variety.
How many people can play?
From 1 to... well, as many as fit in the room! Since everyone has their own sheet, the limit is basically the number of available papers.
Is it hard to learn?
Not at all! The rules are simple and intuitive. You'll be drawing your map within 10 minutes.
Does the game take a long time?
No, games typically last between 30 to 45 minutes, keeping the pace very brisk.
What happens if I draw outside the grid?
You lose points! The whole challenge is fitting the shapes without crossing the map borders.