Artifacts, Inc.
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 60 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 13+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.1 / 5
- Year
- 2014
About the game
Artifacts, Inc. sends players into 1929's frenzy for antiquities, building an archaeology company that explores jungles, deserts, and mountains for lost treasures. Rolling dice to represent troops of adventurers, players place them on cards to find artifacts, sell them to museums, purchase new company assets, and pursue majorities, combos, or sunken treasures. Reaching 20 reputation triggers the game's end, with the most reputable company crowned the winner. Designed by Ryan Laukat, it combines dice placement with variable setup for a fresh adventure each time.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's team enjoys Artifacts, Inc.'s whimsical pulp-adventure theme layered over solid dice-placement and set-collection mechanics, very much in Ryan Laukat's signature style. Multiple viable strategies (museum majorities, expeditions, or treasure hunting) give real replay variety. It's an approachable, medium-light game that plays well for both casual and moderately experienced groups.
What we like
- Charming 1920s pulp-adventure theme with strong art direction.
- Variable setup and multiple strategies boost replayability.
- Approachable dice-placement mechanics for medium-weight gamers.
- Several distinct paths to victory keep games varied.
Keep in mind
- Dice-based action selection introduces some luck.
- Museum majority scoring can feel swingy at lower player counts.
- Moderate complexity may need a full teach for new players.
Who it's for
Good for 2-4 players aged 13+ who enjoy adventure themes, dice placement, and light-to-medium strategy with variable setup.
