Maps of Misterra (2023)

About this game

In Maps of Misterra, you play as explorers have discovered a mystical and unknown island. Your goal: Explore the island and complete your personal and hidden objectives while proposing a correct cartography of the island to earn maximum points. To set up, place a central board representing the island on the table, and give each player a personal map they will use to transcribe their discoveries. Each turn, players choose two actions among these: Move their explorer pawn on the central board. Discover new terrains close to your explorer pawn, choosing from four randomly drawn tiles. Claim control of areas. A type of terrain on the central island must be explored twice before being validated. Thus, the unvalidated terrain types can change — "You thought you saw grass? You were mistaken." — and then your personal map will no longer match the central board. You have to find the ideal balance between your personal objectives, and a correct cartography of the island.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 4. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 2.1/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 10 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.