Fossilis
- Players
- 2-5
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 3 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 60 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 8+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.3 / 5
- Year
- 2020
About the game
A dinosaur-dig game for 2-5 players who work as paleontologists excavating a 3D dig site full of recessed pockets and layered terrain tiles. Each round, players use two actions to dig or extract, uncovering trace fossils that convert into tools, plaster, and points, while deeper digging reveals valuable bones. Extracting a bone requires enough plaster, and players can strategically cover finds to slow down rivals. Complete sets of bones can be traded for big-scoring museum cards, blending exploration, set collection, and light dexterity.
Hobbli's Notes
Fossilis stands out for its tactile, three-dimensional dig-site board, which makes the archaeology theme feel wonderfully hands-on rather than abstract. The mix of push-your-luck digging, dexterity, and set collection gives it broad appeal across different player types. At 60 minutes and moderate complexity, it's meaty enough to satisfy strategy gamers while staying approachable for families. The unique physical components make it a real standout on the table.
What we like
- Unique 3D dig-site board with satisfying tactile components.
- Blends dexterity, exploration, and set collection uniquely.
- Good for a wide range of ages and skill levels.
- Includes a solo play option.
Keep in mind
- Physical dig-site components may be pricier or bulkier to store.
- Dexterity element can frustrate players who prefer pure strategy.
- Take-that covering mechanic can create friction between players.
Who it's for
Great for families and strategy gamers aged 8+ playing in groups of 2-5 who enjoy tactile components and light dexterity mixed with strategy.
