Zooloretto: Polar Bear

ABACUSSPIELE, Spiele aus Timbuktu · Board game · 2007
2–5 · best 4 45 min Weight 1.6/5
5.0 rating Ludopedia
6.5 rating BGG
Buy
5.0 rating Ludopedia
6.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Enjoyed Zooloretto and want a little extra spice without the hassle? This polar bear expansion is a charming bonus that eases negative scoring and can swing the game!

Highlights
  • Adds subtle strategy
  • Eases negative penalty
  • Easy to integrate
  • Charming fan gift
Keep in mind
  • Requires base game
  • Can end quickly
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Hey everyone! Got a cool little add-on for those of you who already love Zooloretto: the "Polar Bear" expansion! This gem was a freebie from Abacus at Spiel 2007 and introduces just one new tile, but it makes a noticeable impact. The concept is straightforward: whoever is the first to fill their 6-space enclosure in the zoo gets the polar bear. And what's the perk? Well, the owner of this special new resident gets a small bonus: at the end of the game, they only lose half the points for any animals left "stuck" in the barn, without a home. It's a way to give a little break to those who are great at organizing their zoo and adds a special touch to the game. The general rules of Zooloretto still apply, so just slot this piece in and enjoy a new strategic challenge. It's perfect for adding some variety to your games and maybe snagging a few extra points. It's a nice treat for fans, an extra pinch of fun without complicating what's already great!

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–5 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Bears Game: Coloretto Promotional: Item Theme: Zoos, Aquaria, Safari Parks
Publisher ABACUSSPIELE, Spiele aus Timbuktu
Designer Michael Schacht
Artist Design/Main

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Do I need the base game Zooloretto to play with this expansion?
Absolutely! This is an expansion, so the board and pieces from the original Zooloretto are essential to use the polar bear.
Does this expansion significantly change the rules?
No, the expansion is quite simple. Only one new rule is added regarding who gets the polar bear and how it affects the negative score in the barn. The rest of the game remains the same.
How much time does this expansion add to the game?
The expansion itself doesn't add playtime. The game will still take the original 45 minutes of Zooloretto.
Is this expansion hard to get?
Originally, it was distributed as a promotional item at an event (Spiel 2007). It might be a bit harder to find nowadays, but it's worth looking for if you're a fan of the game!
Is this expansion for solo players?
No, Zooloretto is a game for 2 to 5 players, and this expansion maintains that characteristic. There is no solo mode.
Does the polar bear really make a big difference?
It certainly can! The reduction in point loss for animals in the barn can be crucial in close games, giving a strategic advantage to whoever acquires it first.