Nautilus
999 Games, KOSMOS, Mayfair Games · Board game · 2002
2–4 · best 4
120 min
Weight 2.7/5
5.7
rating
Ludopedia
6.3
rating
BGG
5.7
rating
Ludopedia
6.3
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
For eurogame fans who love theme-rich building and exploration. Blends economic strategy with underwater adventure uniquely!
Highlights
- Purpose-driven exploration
- Smart indirect interaction
- Satisfying progression
Keep in mind
- Slow early game
- Treasure randomness
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
In Nautilus, you lead a deep-sea expedition to find the legendary Atlantis! The game blends base-building, exploration, and economic strategy on a board representing the ocean floor. Each round has three phases: expanding your research station (with varied module types granting advantages), deploying scientists (who activate these stations), and launching submarines to hunt treasures and artifacts. The more you invest in infrastructure, the more efficient your explorations become. But watch out—other players can use your stations... for a fee! The game ends when Atlantis is found or resources run dry. Points come from recovered treasures, secret objectives, and multipliers based on your scientific development. Get ready to balance economy, tech, and a dash of luck in the abyss!
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
REC
3
REC
4
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
999 Games, KOSMOS, Mayfair Games
Designer
Brigitte Ditt, Wolfgang Ditt
Artist
Franz Vohwinkel
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
2,857owners
195wishlist
35want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Best player count?
Works great with 3-4. With 2, it becomes a more relaxed strategic game.
Is luck a big factor?
Exploration has luck elements, but your building decisions heavily influence outcomes.
How complex is it?
Medium weight (2.6/5 on BGG). Rules are straightforward but require long-term planning.
Does it have miniatures?
Yes! The submarines are miniatures, adding thematic charm.
Actual playtime?
The 2h estimate is accurate for experienced players. First game may take up to 3h.
Need to like sci-fi?
Not essential, but the Jules Verne theme is prominent and delightful for fans.
