Origins: How We Became Human (2007)

About this game

The game traces the development of early human species from 120,000 years ago through to the near-modern era. Players take the role of Peking Man, Archaic Homo Sapiens, Cro-Magnon, Neanderthal, or Homo Floresiensis, and each attempts to develop instincts and higher cortical brain functioning, such as language traits. The populations expand and collide, and eventually consciousness, society, and culture are sought after.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 5.
• Rules load. At 3.8/5 this is a heavy game — read the rulebook before people arrive.
• Age. The publisher suggests 10 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.