Overview:

Name of the game: Dominant Species

BGG Weight: 4.04 / 5

Year published: 2010

Publisher: GMT Games

Designer: Chad Jensen

Number of players: 2-6

Playing time: 120-240 minutes

Game category/theme: Area Control, Evolution, Survival, Strategy

Board game mechanics: Action Queue, Area Majority / Influence, End Game Bonuses, Grid Movement, Hexagon Grid

 

Ratings:

Strategy: 9.3

Complexity: 8.5

Player Interaction: 8.8

Replayability: 9.2

Game Rating: 9.0

Cost: 5.5

 

Calculations:

Weight Rating = (8.5 + 9.3) = 17.8

Playability rating = [(9.2 + 8.8 + 9.0) – 8.5] = 18.5

Play Rating score = (17.8 + 18.5) * 2 = 72.6

Value Rating = 72.6 / 5.5 = 13.2

 

Final Score Rating = 72.6 + 13.2 = 85.80

 

Review:

Dominant Species is a highly competitive game of survival and adaptation. Players take on the role of various animal species, each with unique abilities, as they compete for dominance over the changing landscape. The game features a variety of mechanics, including action points, area control, worker placement, and variable player powers, which all come together to create a deeply strategic and engaging gameplay experience.

One of the key strengths of Dominant Species is its replayability. With so many different animal species and game mechanics, each playthrough is likely to feel unique, and players will need to adapt their strategies on the fly based on the changing conditions of the game board. The game also features a high degree of player interaction, with players constantly vying for control of territory and resources, which adds an extra layer of tension and excitement to the gameplay.

Dominant Species is not a game for the faint of heart, however. The game is relatively complex and will require some time and effort to learn all of the various rules and mechanics. Additionally, the game can be quite lengthy, with a typical playtime of 2-4 hours, so players will need to be prepared to commit a significant amount of time to each playthrough.

Overall, Dominant Species is an excellent choice for players who enjoy deep, strategic gameplay and are looking for a game with a high level of replayability and player interaction.

Dominant Species offers no solo or cooperative play.

Here are 10 other games that may appeal to someone who liked Dominant Species:

1. Root – In Root, players take on the roles of different woodland creatures competing for control of the forest. Each player has a unique set of abilities and goals, making for a highly asymmetrical and strategic game.
2. Brass: Birmingham – A complex economic strategy game set in 18th century Birmingham, England. Players build industries, transport goods, and compete for control of resources to become the most successful entrepreneur.
3. Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization – A civilization-building game where players lead their nations from the ancient era to the modern age. Players must balance resource management, military conquest, and cultural development to achieve victory.
4. Scythe – Set in an alternate history 1920s Europe, Scythe is a strategy game where players lead factions vying for control of resources and territory. The game features a unique action-selection system and highly detailed miniatures.
5. Eclipse – In Eclipse, players take on the roles of interstellar civilizations competing for dominance in a galaxy filled with resources and enemies. The game features a unique tile-laying mechanic and deep strategic gameplay.
6. Gaia Project – A sci-fi themed game where players compete to colonize and control a galaxy. Players must balance resource management, technological development, and area control to achieve victory.
7. Terraforming Mars – A card-driven strategy game where players work to terraform and colonize Mars. Players must balance resource management, scientific research, and infrastructure development to succeed.
8. Spirit Island – In Spirit Island, players take on the roles of powerful spirits protecting their island home from invading colonizers. The game features highly asymmetrical gameplay and deep strategic depth.
9. Twilight Struggle – A two-player game set during the Cold War, where players take on the roles of the US and Soviet Union. Players compete for influence in various regions around the world, while also managing their military and political power.
10. Arkwright – A complex economic strategy game where players build and manage textile factories in 18th century England. The game features detailed production mechanics and a highly competitive marketplace.

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