Cartographers: New Discoveries

Gen-X Games (GenX), Grok Games, Ogry Games · Board game · 2020
1–100 · best 3, 4 Solo Weight 1.7/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 14.89
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love drawing maps and want extra variety, this expansion gives you exactly that.

Highlights
  • New trap cards
  • Tabula Rasa pad
  • Color pencils included
  • Same rules as base
Keep in mind
  • No new mechanics
  • May feel repetitive if you own all content
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Cartographers: New Discoveries arrives as an expansion pack that makes the classic Cartographers even more diverse. Inside the box you’ll find three map pads: one with the Ambush mini‑expansion trap cards, another with brand‑new maps for the base game, and a third dedicated to the "Tabula Rasa" variant, which features the iconic blank board card for a fresh start. A set of colored pencils is also included so you can shade your territories and give your map a personal touch. The rules are exactly the same as the base game – roll the die, pick a terrain card, and draw lines on paper, trying to cover as much of the grid as possible without breaking the constraints. The new "Tabula Rasa" starting point lets you begin a game without pre‑set cards, offering even more creative freedom. It works for groups of 1 to 100 players, with quick 15‑30 minute rounds, and retains a low complexity (weight 1.7), making it perfect for families and newcomers while still appealing to veterans who love fresh card combos and layouts. No new rulebook is needed; just open the pads and play. The expansion also bundles the Ambush mini‑expansion, adding trap cards to spice up rounds. In short, Cartographers: New Discoveries is a light, colorful boost packed with options that keeps the original’s charm while expanding creativity and replayability.

Expansion for

Published additional content

2 items

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–100 players
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Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Polyominoes Game: Cartographers Mechanism: Roll-and-Write
Publisher Gen-X Games (GenX), Grok Games, Ogry Games, Pegasus Spiele, Raven Distribution, Reflexshop, Thunderworks Games
Designer Jordy Adan
Artist Jordy Adan, Lucas Ribeiro

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can use the expansion?
From 1 to 100 players, just like the base game.
How long does a game take?
Around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on player count.
Do I need to learn new rules?
No. The rules are identical to the original Cartographers; just use the new pads.
What is included in the box?
Ambush trap cards, a new map pad, the Tabula Rasa pad, colored pencils, and an old map pad.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, the complexity stays low (weight 1.7), making it great for newcomers.
Can I play solo with this expansion?
Yes, the base game supports solo play and the expansion works the same way.
Do I need any extra components?
No, everything you need comes in the box, including colored pencils for map shading.