What is the game about?
In this game, you take on the role of a Victorian-era botanist, traveling around the world and collecting different specimens to bring back to your estate in England. Each player selects a character card that defines a unique ability, which will be very useful during these dangerous botanical adventures. Dangerous? Yes - there may be storms, wild animals, and angry bees standing in your way as you search for your botanical “diamonds.”
During the game, you travel around the map to visit specific regions where the plants you are looking for are located. Along the way, you can purchase additional items to help you in your botanical expeditions. And, of course, you will improve your garden with unique features that help you gain more attention and prestige.
Appearance of the game
The game features beautiful flower cards that make you feel like you are flipping through the pages of an old botanical atlas in a library. The event and item cards also have very atmospheric illustrations. The player pawns are custom-made, resembling chess figurines and giving off romantic English vibes.
If you are not yet convinced in the game’s thoughtful design, the game box comes with useful inserts that make setup and packing easier. There is even a separate tray for storing coins.
Gameplay
The game features simple rules, which makes it great for playing with less experienced players. The theme and the rules also make it suitable as a family game. Due to the random selection of specimen cards, each playthrough will feel a little different because of the variability in the routes you plan to take during your expedition. The event cards make the game even more thematic (and potentially more challenging if you struggle to roll 4–6 on the dice). Additionally, the wide selection of starting characters allows you to experience the game from different angles.
A cute aspect of the rulebook is that you can discuss and choose to exchange specimen cards and even item cards with other players. If you are not a fan of mean interactions, you can almost always choose not to perform actions that target your opponents, which makes the game feel cozier and friendlier.
Who will like this game?
The game will interest you if you usually prefer lighter games that are not too strategic. If you enjoy the theme and value atmosphere in board games, this one may appeal to you. It is a perfect game to play on a cozy game night with friends or family.
Things to consider
If you mostly play games in solo mode, this might not be the perfect choice for you. You will need to perform actions for the bot opponent, which includes making them travel across the map. It can feel a bit like playing for two different players simultaneously, which may become tedious. However, if you do not mind using a bit more brainpower to manage the bot, you might still consider trying this game.
The game might end quite abruptly, and you may not have enough time to return to your estate to bring your specimens (= precious victory points) to your garden. If you play in a more considerate and demure way, notifying your opponents that the final round is approaching, the game will feel smoother for everyone. Of course, if you prefer more competitive interaction, you can choose to keep your plans secret from your opponents.
