Islebound: Emerald Edition

I think this replaces Merchants and Marauders for me. There's a lot to do but the game loop is clear. Also reminds me of Le Havre

I like it. Sail around taking over islands via attack or diplomacy. Take over other players towns or non-allied towns. Gather resources to gain pirates or sea serpents or fish or wood. Construct buildings for benefits and victory points. Seems a little complicated at first, but like all of Laukat's games, it makes complete sense, is well thought out, and easy to grasp after a few turns. I probably like this a small amount less than Above and Below and Near and Far, but that's only because the other mechanics appeal to me more. This is solid. Will want to try multiplayer instead of just solo multi-handed.

Surprisingly confrontational pick up, deliver and area majority race for the points. I really have started to love Laukat's design despite not loving his open world games.

I never played the original edition, so I have nothing to compare it against, but this edition is a very fun, fast and furious game of taking over the map with pirates and sea serpents. I don't know if I can think of anything terribly special this game does that another game doesn't, but it's very fun to play and has outstanding art. Follows the usual Red Raven tradition of making a mostly abstract game feel very thematic with it's excellent art style and graphic design.

If someone is winning there is a bit of a runaway leader issue, especially if people aren't trying to stop them.