Finspan

Stonemaier Games, 999 Games, Arclight Games · Board game · 2025
1–5 · best 2 Solo 45–60 min Weight 2.3/5
8.6 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
8.6 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for Wingspan fans looking to explore the deep sea with satisfying combo mechanics.

Highlights
  • Engaging life cycle (egg-young-school)
  • Beautifully explored marine theme
  • Excellent automated solo mode
  • Smooth engine progression
Keep in mind
  • Language dependency for full flow
  • Learning curve for newcomers
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ever thought about trading dry land for a deep dive into the ocean's mysteries? In Finspan, you step into the shoes of a dedicated marine researcher, exploring the layers of the sea to catalog aquatic life. The journey is divided into three distinct zones: the vibrant Sunlight Zone, the ghostly Twilight Zone, and the pitch-black Midnight Zone, where darkness is the only rule.

Over four weeks of expedition, your goal is to discover fish that aren't just for the collection, but generate strategic benefits as you dive deeper. The game functions as an efficiency engine: each dive site offers specific opportunities. You'll need to balance expanding your fish collection, searching for freshly laid eggs, and the process of hatching those eggs into young. The most satisfying part? Watching these young consolidate into schools, multiplying your points and the efficiency of your research.

The game requires careful hand management and the intelligent use of abilities that can only be activated once per match. Victory isn't just about who has the most fish, but who best managed the marine life chain, summing up points from eggs, young, schools, and special achievements. It's the kind of game that blends the satisfaction of building a 'combo' with scientific curiosity, perfect for those who enjoy seeing their progress grow visually on the table. If you love nature observation vibes and engine-building mechanics, Finspan is your next destination.
Rules videos

In English

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

Families

Animals: Fish / Fishes Category: DIZED Tutorial Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Game: Wingspan Mechanism: Tableau Building Misc: GettingGames Tutorial Videos Misc: Made by Panda Organizations: Automa Factory Players: Games with Solitaire Rules
Publisher Stonemaier Games, 999 Games, Arclight Games, Delta Vision Publishing, Divercentro, Feuerland Spiele, Ghenos Games, Grok Games, Lautapelit.fi, Lavka Games, Maldito Games, Matagot, MINDOK, MIPL, Rebel Sp. z o.o., Surfin' Meeple China, Ігромаг
Designer David Gordon (I), Michael O'Connell (II)
Artist Ana Maria Martinez Jaramillo, Catalina Martinez, Mesa Schumacher
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex?
It's classified as Expert, so it has some strategic layers, but if you've played engine-building games, you'll pick it up quickly.
Can I play it alone?
Yes! The game has solid solo rules, perfect for testing strategies or when you don't have a group.
How long does a game take?
On average between 45 and 60 minutes, making it a brisk game for the depth it offers.
Is translation needed to play?
Yes, there is moderate language dependency. You'll need translated cards or spreadsheets to understand all effects.
Who do you recommend this game to?
Card game fans, marine biology enthusiasts, and those who love building efficient combos.
How many people can play?
From 1 to 5 players, making it very versatile for different group sizes.