Palm Island

Portal Dragon, Broadway Toys LTD, KOSMOS · Board game · 2018
1–2 Solo 15 min Weight 1.8/5
7.8 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
7.8 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're looking for a game that fits in your pocket and your busy life, Palm Island is the perfect choice! It's a card optimization puzzle that accompanies you on any adventure.

Highlights
  • Super portable, play anywhere
  • Innovative card mechanic
  • Multiple game modes
  • Great for solo play
  • Impactful and quick decisions
Keep in mind
  • Can be repetitive for some
  • Initial learning curve
  • Relies on memorization
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Palm Island truly defines portability in board games! Imagine a game you can take anywhere, no table required – seriously, you can play it standing, sitting, on a bus, on a plane, in a queue, wherever life takes you. Using just 17 cards, each with four distinct sides, you'll shape your own island over eight rounds, overcoming unique challenges and transforming your deck in super clever ways. Every decision, from storing resources to upgrading buildings, directly impacts your village's future, unlocking new abilities and boosting your score. The game offers incredible flexibility with three main modes: in solo play, you chase achievements and refine your island; in cooperative mode, the goal is to work together to prepare your village against natural disasters; and in competitive mode, it's a race to acquire bonuses or meet specific criteria before your opponent. You can even add special villagers to recruit and use their abilities in any mode, supercharging your points. The game comes with two-player decks, plus specific cards for each mode, and if you want more players, just combine additional copies of the game. Take your paradise island with you and build your legacy wherever you are!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
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WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Families

Containers: Unique Shape Islands: Fictional Misc: No Table Needed Misc: Self-Referential Games Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Two-Player Only Games Theme: Tropical Islands
Publisher Portal Dragon, Broadway Toys LTD, KOSMOS, Lucky Duck Games, Nuts! Publishing, PaperGames (III)
Designer Jon Mietling
Artist Jon Mietling, Mirko Suzuki
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main feature that makes Palm Island so unique?
Palm Island's biggest draw is its extreme portability and the 'deck transforming' mechanic. You play with just 17 cards in hand, rotating and overlapping them to evolve your island, without needing a table!
Can I play Palm Island solo?
Absolutely! The solo mode is one of the game's strong suits. You can challenge yourself to achieve higher scores and unlock achievements, making the single-player experience very rewarding.
How long does a game of Palm Island last?
A game is super quick, usually between 15 and 20 minutes. It's perfect for those moments when you have a little free time but don't want to commit to a long game.
Is Palm Island a complex game for beginners?
Not really! The game's weight is quite light (1.75/5), meaning the rules are easy to learn. The challenge lies more in mastering strategies and optimizing your plays than in understanding the basic mechanics.
What are the game components?
The game is primarily composed of cards. It comes with two decks of 17 cards each, plus specific cards for competitive, cooperative, and solo feat modes. Everything is very compact and functional!
Who would you recommend Palm Island to?
I'd recommend it to anyone who loves strategic card games but needs something super portable. It's ideal for travelers, those with limited space, or anyone looking for a quick, clever 'filler' between larger games. Solo game fans will absolutely love it!
Is it possible to play with more than two players?
Yes! While the base game comes with components for 1-2 players, you can combine multiple copies of the game to add more participants and expand the fun.