# Notebook Nations: Flames & Fishes

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2026
- **BGG Rating**: —
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 1-4
- **Duration**: 50-150 min
- **Weight**: —
- **Publishers**: Dux Somnium Games
- **Categories**: Civilization
- **Mechanics**: Grid Movement, Moving Multiple Units, Multiple Maps, Tech Trees / Tech Tracks, Tile Placement, Turn Order: Auction, Variable Player Powers

## Verdict
Fans of personality-packed civilization games will love this mix of deep strategy and charming art. The Flames & Fishes expansion brings creative mechanics that refresh the 4X formula.Great asymmetryDynamic auctionsHigh replayabilityCharming artGames can run longLimited direct interactionRECOMMENDED

## Description
Notebook Nations: Flames & Fishes is a standalone expansion adding two new civilizations to the game's universe: the Ember Spirits and the Merhamster Kingdom. Here, you don't build traditional camps but Destruction Zones — special buildings that provide one-time resources and then become impassable. But here's the twist: with the right ability, even these ruins can be recycled! The game keeps the 4X (Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate) essence in a fast-paced, highly asymmetric package. Every decision — from turn order (determined by auctions!) to grid-based unit movement — shapes how your nation grows. Win by accumulating victory points through military conquest, scientific advancement, or cultural achievements. The storybook art hides strategic depth that will please both genre veterans and newcomers looking for a less intimidating civilization game.

## FAQ
### Do I need the base game to play this expansion?
Nope! Flames & Fishes is standalone with everything you need. But it's cross-compatible with the base game and other expansions if you want to mix.

### Player count?
1-4 players, with a solid solo mode. 4-player games may take up to 2.5 hours.

### Good for 4X beginners?
Yes! Rules are more approachable than typical 4X games while still offering strategic depth.

### What's special about the new factions?
They replace camps with Destruction Zones — buildings that provide one-time resources then block map areas.

### Is there cooperative play?
Not officially, but nothing stops you from creating house rules against a common enemy!