Nautilus: Das taktische Abenteuer auf hoher See

moses. Verlag GmbH · Board game · 2026
— Ludopedia — BGG 2–4 60 min
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— rating Ludopedia
— rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Nautilus is a frantic, high-interaction race that is perfect for those who enjoy team games with a bit of a mean streak. The secret trading mechanic with your partner adds an extra layer of strategy, while the 'Take That' elements ensure no one stays comfortable on the high seas. It is a tense, fun experience with that classic adventure feel that will keep everyone at the table engaged.

Highlights
  • Intense partner interaction
  • Tense and strategic racing
  • Fun sabotage mechanics
  • High replayability and excitement
Keep in mind
  • Can be frustrating with attacks
  • Requires a good partner
  • Whale movement luck factor
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to hoist the sails and face the dangers of the ocean in Nautilus! If you have always wanted to live a classic nautical adventure, this game puts you and your crew in a frantic race across the Seven Seas. The goal is simple, yet far from easy: be the first to guide your fleet into the safe harbor. But make no mistake, the sea is treacherous and the horizon holds surprises that can change the course of the game in the blink of an eye.

The gameplay is a mix of strategy and chaos. You will need to manage your cards efficiently to navigate, but the real highlight is the interaction with your teammate. You can secretly trade cards, which opens the door for coordinated moves that can leave your rivals in the dust. However, since not everything is smooth sailing, the game also allows for that classic 'Take That' style: you will use action cards to create storms and hurdles in the path of other players. It is the perfect time to be a bit mischievous and ensure your fleet advances while others get stuck along the way.

And there is one detail that strikes fear into any sailor: Moby Dick. The legendary whale roams the waters and, if you are not careful with your navigation, one wrong move can send your ship straight back to the starting line. Is it frustrating? Absolutely. Is it hilarious? Totally! The game requires you to balance speed with caution, always keeping an eye on what others are plotting. Nautilus is the kind of game that generates laughter, tension, and plenty of table talk. If you enjoy racing games with a dash of spite and need a partner to share decisions with, this is an excellent choice for the weekend. After all, who will be the captain to bring the fleet safely into port while others are still fighting the waves? The answer only comes at the end of the game, and you can be sure the journey there will be unforgettable.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher moses. Verlag GmbH
Artist Folko Streese

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2owners
1wishlist

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, working best in teams.
What is the average duration of a game?
A game of Nautilus usually takes about 60 minutes.
Is the game difficult to learn?
Not at all! The rules are intuitive, focusing on card management and movement, perfect for both casual and experienced players.
Is there a lot of player interaction?
Yes, the game relies heavily on 'Take That' mechanics, so hindering your opponents is an essential part of the strategy.
What happens if I encounter Moby Dick?
If you don't navigate carefully, the whale can send you straight back to the starting line!
Do I need a partner to play?
The game is team-based, so coordinating with your partner is one of the most important mechanics.

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