# Explorers of the North Sea

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2016
- **BGG Rating**: 7.3
- **BGG Rank**: #1236
- **Players**: 1-4 (Best with: 4)
- **Duration**: 45-60 min
- **Weight**: 2.13 / 5
- **Designers**: Shem Phillips
- **Artists**: Mihajlo Dimitrievski
- **Publishers**: Garphill Games, Pixie Games, Renegade Game Studios, Schwerkraft-Verlag, White Goblin Games
- **Categories**: Animals, Exploration, Medieval, Nautical
- **Mechanics**: Action Points, Area Majority / Influence, Grid Movement, Modular Board, Pick-up and Deliver, Set Collection, Tile Placement, Variable Player Powers

## Verdict
A fast-paced, addictive Viking adventure for map-expansion lovers!Very satisfying map expansionExcellent game pacingWell-balanced action mechanicsHigh player interactivityCan feel slightly chaotic for newcomersTile draw luck can varyRECOMMENDED

## Description
Ready your longships and sharpen your axes, because the Viking Age is in full swing! In Explorers of the North Sea, you step into the boots of an ambitious sea captain looking to do much more than just sail—you want to dominate the icy northern waters. Your mission is clear, yet demanding: explore uncharted lands, settle islands, capture livestock, and build outposts to cement your legacy.

Everyone starts from a shared central island, but the world is ever-changing. As you play, you'll place new tiles, physically expanding the modular board and discovering new territories. With 4 action points available each turn, the tactical decisions pile up quickly. Should you load your ship with supplies, move your Vikings to raid a settlement, transport precious animals, or perhaps take a more aggressive route by destroying an enemy vessel? It's a constant tug-of-war between expansion and confrontation.

The gameplay is tight and incredibly rewarding. You might choose to be a master trader, focusing on livestock delivery and efficient routes, or a ruthless raider, pillaging villages and clashing with rivals. Victory points are earned through a variety of means: controlling islands, destroying ships, raiding settlements, and managing your unique captain cards. With a brisk playtime and a board that grows alongside your ambitions, it feels like a fast-paced epic adventure. It's ideal for players who love resource management and area control without the heavy downtime of a massive war game, offering just enough depth to keep every decision meaningful.

## FAQ
### How long does a game take?
Usually between 45 to 60 minutes, making it quite snappy.

### Is it hard to learn?
Not at all! The rules are intuitive, though strategy requires focus.

### Can I play solo?
Yes, the game includes solitaire rules.

### How many players can play?
From 1 to 4 players.

### Is it a very aggressive game?
Yes, you can destroy ships and raid, so be ready for some conflict!

### Do I need to know English to play?
The text is minimal and very visual, so it's easy to pick up even with limited English.

## Price Comparison
### Best International Offers
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