Oceans

North Star Games, LLC, Ediciones MasQueOca, Funforge · Board game · 2020
2–4 · best 3 60–90 min Weight 2.9/5
rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love biological strategy games and enjoy seeing their species evolve in bizarre ways. The highlight is the transition from the surface to the deep sea.

Highlights
  • Very creative card synergies
  • Beautiful and immersive artwork
  • High replayability across sessions
  • Well-executed evolution mechanics
Keep in mind
  • Moderate initial learning curve
  • Language barrier for non-English speakers
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Get ready to dive deep! Oceans is a stand-alone entry in the Evolution series that takes us from the sun-drenched surface waters to the darkest and most mysterious abysses of the planet. Here, you're not just playing a game; you're shaping the biology of your species to survive in an ecosystem where food is scarce and death lurks around every corner. The goal is simple, but the execution is complex: adapt or perish.

The game functions as an interactive engine builder. During the first half of the match, you focus on stability, using Surface cards to create biological synergies and ensure your species can feed. You might choose to be a gentle giant filter feeder or perhaps a treacherous parasite sucking energy from others. But don't get too comfortable, because the second half of the game flips the script. That's when 'The Deep' cards enter the fray, bringing bizarre traits and disruptive powers that can completely change the game's rules and cause chaos in the ecosystem.

To spice things up, there are random scenario cards that activate and deactivate throughout the game, forcing you to pivot your strategy on the fly. With over 100 unique traits and stunning artwork, every session is a new discovery. You'll have to deal with the inevitable aging of your species and the constant threat of apex predators who see you as a snack. Can you evolve in time to dominate the ocean, or will you end up as food for someone stronger? The struggle for survival is relentless, and creativity in card combinations is your only weapon.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
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Game details

Families

Animals: Coral / Jellyfish / Anemones Animals: Crabs Animals: Fish / Fishes Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Google Play Digital Implementations: Steam Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Mechanism: Tableau Building Misc: Watch It Played How To Videos Players: Games with expansions that add solo play Series: Evolution (North Star Games) Theme: Evolution Theme: Sealife, Seas, and Oceans
Publisher North Star Games, LLC, Ediciones MasQueOca, Funforge, Gameland 游戏大陆, Grok Games, Pendragon Game Studio, Popcorn Games, Reflexshop, Rightgames RBG SIA, Schwerkraft-Verlag, TWOPLUS Games
Designer Ben Goldman, Brian O'Neill, Dominic Crapuchettes, Nick Bentley
Artist Catherine Hamilton, Guillaume Ducos
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have played the original Evolution to play Oceans?
Nope! Oceans is a stand-alone game, so you can jump straight in without any prior experience.
Is the game too complex? What's the weight?
It has a medium weight (around 2.8 on BGG). It's not ultra-hardcore, but it requires planning and attention to card interactions.
How long does a game last?
Usually between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the player count and how much you debate your moves.
How many players is it for?
2 to 4 players. It works well in any configuration, but with 4 players, the 'Take That' dynamics become more intense.
Is the game educational?
Yes, it uses real biology and ecology concepts, although 'The Deep' section leans more into imagination and the fantastic.