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Unearthing Jurassic Thrills
In the realm of board games, few franchises possess the magnetic allure of Jurassic Park. Funko Games, renowned for their imaginative creations, have taken this iconic IP and packed it into a reasonably sized box bursting with excitement, allowing you to step into the prehistoric realm with "Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar." With high hopes and a sense of wonder akin to a child entering a dinosaur-themed amusement park, you will not be disappointed by this Legacy game.
Before proceeding, be aware that there will be a few spoilers. I'll do my best to keep them discreet, but it's challenging to review a game without touching on them. If you choose to continue reading, I will clearly mark the spoiler sections with Stars (***). You've been warned.
Game Setup: Welcome To Jurassic Park
Upon opening the box, you'll find the familiar warnings of "Do Not Open", "Do Not Read", and the classic "STOP", typical of a Legacy Game. However, unlike other legacies where you gingerly navigate around game pieces, wondering where to start, this one provides a helpful sheet right from the outset, guiding you through the initial steps.
Setting up the game prompts you to open various components, and you'll quickly realize that no expense was spared. The rulebook is a visual treat, resembling a comic book, evoking a childlike sense of wonder. Given the legacy format, there are numerous rules and ample space for additional ones.
***The adventure books you encounter during gameplay follows the same style as the rulebook, offering further instructions on setting up the game for specific scenarios, along with additional packages to unwrap and rules to incorporate.***
Fear not, for the 'Ring of Rule Cards' comes to the rescue. With over 40 double-sided rule cards, this game provides a comprehensive reference to delve deeper into the rules. They come neatly organized in a ring binder, proving to be a game-changer for quick and easy rule clarification during play.
How the Game Plays: Can't just suppress 65 million years of gut instinct
"Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar" is, at its core, an immersive strategy game that transports players back to the mysterious island of Isla Nublar. The objective? Construct and manage your very own dinosaur park, all while navigating the intricacies of nature, science, and the occasional rampaging T-Rex that's more interested in hunting than being fed.
Though not overly complex, the game does have a moderate learning curve. The rulebook does a commendable job guiding players through setup and mechanics, but there are moments when you'll find yourself double-checking for clarity, where the Ring of Rule Cards proves invaluable. The challenge lies in striking a balance between expanding your park, conducting research, and ensuring safety. It's a delicate dance that keeps you engaged without overwhelming you.
One of the most intriguing aspects is the delicate balance between pursuing victory and unlocking new elements. As you all strive to achieve the main objective and stay alive, you'll face moments where you must decide whether to push your luck and attempt something thrilling to unlock new features, ***or to prioritize turning on the power to prevent your friend from becoming dino-lunch. The limited number of actions per round and shared objectives compel strategic decisions that not only influence your success in the current adventure but also significantly impact the future of your island and upcoming adventures. In hindsight, giving velociraptors octopus DNA might not have been the most strategic move.***
In terms of replayability, this is where the game truly shines. The variable setup and multiple strategies ensure that no two adventures are alike. Whether you choose to focus on completing objectives or maximizing the scientific potential of your playthrough, there's always a fresh approach to explore. Additionally, the inclusion of event cards and the unpredictable nature of the dinosaurs themselves keep the gameplay dynamic and exhilarating.
Art & Quality: Spared No Expense
Funko Games, much like John Hammond, has spared no expense in the production of "Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar." ***The components are robust, with thick cardboard tokens and well-crafted dinosaur figurines. The board and trackers are thoughtfully designed, offering a clear and intuitive layout. The only minor drawback is component storage; while you can repurpose the boxes and envelopes you open for storage, it didn't quite work for me.***
The artwork in this game is nothing short of spectacular. The overall comic-style art is a solid 10/10. The only regret is that if you didn't back this as a Kickstarter, you've missed out on the wooden tokens. As a fan of wooden tokens, I'd almost consider it a crime to use cardboard instead.
Final Thoughts: God creates dinosaurs. God destroys dinosaurs. God creates man. Man destroys God. Man creates a fantastic Boardgame.
Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar excels in bringing the magic of the franchise to the tabletop. It's a rollercoaster of a game, teetering on the edge of controlled chaos as you strive to tame the untameable. The blend of strategy, visual appeal, and thematic immersion makes it a standout addition to any board game collection.
It's a must-try for fans of the franchise and tabletop enthusiasts alike. So, gather your fellow park managers, and prepare for a journey back in time that's sure to leave a lasting legacy.
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