Undergrove

Alderac Entertainment Group, Hobby World, Laguna · Board game · 2024
7.2 Ludopedia 7.0 BGG 1–4 · best 3 Solo 60–75 min Weight 2.9/5
Buy · from US$ 26.99
7.2 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy light strategy with an eco‑theme, Undergrove will charm you; the fungal network mechanic shines.

Highlights
  • Premium wooden components
  • Expanding map mechanic
  • Mix of area control and set collection
Keep in mind
  • Moderate learning curve
  • Some rules only in Portuguese
  • Can slow down with four players
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

For over 300 million years, trees and fungi have been swapping nutrients through an extensive underground network. In Undergrove, each player commands a towering fir that builds symbiotic ties with those fungi. As new mushrooms appear on the shared board, fresh options to convert resources and nurture seedlings emerge. The game blends cube conversion, tile placement, area control, and a dash of engine building. You’ll vie for the best spots, trade with mushrooms using cards and tokens, and ultimately count how many seedlings grow into sturdy trees. The goal is to cultivate the most successful seedlings, mirroring the real-world importance of mycorrhizal connections.

Map Addition expands the forest gradually, while Open Drafting lets everyone pick mushrooms with distinct abilities, creating varied strategic paths. Hand Management and Action Retrieval give players control over their moves, enabling resource combos. Area Majority/Influence rewards dominance over nutrient‑rich zones, and End Game Bonuses add extra points for set collections and area influence.

Featuring premium wooden components, Undergrove offers a tactile and charming experience. It supports 1‑4 players, runs 60‑75 minutes, and has a moderate weight of 2.9/5, making it perfect for those who want a medium‑depth challenge without rule overload. Ideal for anyone fascinated by biology, ecology, or simply enjoys a solid placement and set‑collection game. Undergrove is both educational and environmental, delivering a fun dive into the hidden world of mycorrhizal networks.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Wooden pieces & boards Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Mechanism: Tableau Building Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Theme: Biology Theme: Mushrooms Theme: Nature Theme: Trees and Forests
Publisher Alderac Entertainment Group, Hobby World, Laguna, Reflexshop
Designer Elizabeth Hargrave, Mark Wootton
Artist Beth Sobel

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

4,086owners
1,162wishlist
95want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play?
1 to 4 players, including a solo mode.
What is the typical playtime?
Around 60–75 minutes, varying with player count.
How complex is the game?
Weight 2.9/5 – medium complexity, easy to learn with strategic depth.
What are the main components?
Wooden pieces, modular board, resource cubes, mushroom cards, and seedling markers.
Who is the game best suited for?
Fans of ecological themes, tile‑placement enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an educational yet fun experience.
Is there a digital version?
Yes, Undergrove is available on Board Game Arena for online play.
Do I need translated cards to play in Portuguese?
A translation sheet or Portuguese cards are required, as the original language is English.

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