Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
If you love cooperative survival and a gripping story, this expansion serves up an immersive plot and fresh mechanics.
Highlights
- Immersive storyline
- Branching‑plot mechanic
- Thematic cards
Keep in mind
- Long playtime
- Moderate learning curve
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About the game
What you do in a play session
The "Tracing Doctor Livingstone" expansion adds a fresh scenario to Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island, set in 1871 when famed explorer David Livingstone vanished deep in Africa. The scenario arrives on two A3 sheets: a classic layout and one printed like a late‑19th‑century newspaper, amplifying the rescue‑mission vibe. Its standout mechanic draws from branching‑plot novels, letting player choices shape the story and open different survival routes. It also introduces the Invention Card "Livingstone's Cross," granting the crew a unique advantage. As with the base game, the experience remains cooperative for 1‑4 players, who must allocate workers, roll dice, and exploit variable player powers to secure food, shelter, and ultimately locate the ailing scientist before it’s too late. The modular board is rebuilt each play, ensuring the island feels new every time. Narrative cards and events generate constant tension, while the storytelling element ensures each group lives a distinct tale. Playtime ranges from 90 to 150 minutes, reflecting the depth of resource management, danger handling, and clue‑following. With a 3/5 weight, the game demands strategic thought but remains approachable, appealing to both veterans of Robinson Crusoe and newcomers to deeper cooperative games. Overall, this expansion blends history, strategy, and teamwork, raising the original adventure to a higher level of immersion.
Expansion for
Published additional content
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
1
OK
2
OK
3
OK
4
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Portal Games, Pegasus Spiele
Designer
Ignacy Trzewiczek
Artist
Maciej Mutwil
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,693owners
129wishlist
38want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can play?
1 to 4 players, including a solo mode.
What is the typical playtime?
Between 90 and 150 minutes, depending on player count and rule familiarity.
Do I need the base game?
Yes, the expansion requires Robinson Crusoe: Adventures on the Cursed Island.
What are the main new features?
A newspaper‑style scenario, branching‑plot mechanic, and the Invention Card "Livingstone's Cross".
Is it suitable for beginners?
A 3/5 weight means it’s approachable, though some familiarity with the base helps.
Is there a solo mode?
Yes, the expansion includes specific solo rules.
What components are included?
Two A3 sheets (traditional and newspaper scenario), scenario cards, the Invention card, and thematic markers.