Propolis
- Players
- 1-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 3 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 30 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 10+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.1 / 5
- Year
- 2025
About the game
A worker-placement and engine-building game for 1-4 players in which competing medieval bee colonies deploy worker bees to collect pollen, fortify territory, and build hives to impress their queen. Players gather resources across the realm's floral landscapes, convert pollen into propolis, and use it to expand their hive with new structures that unlock additional scoring options. Dominating different realms brings extra glory and building materials. Whoever builds the most prestigious hive and controls the most territory wins.
Hobbli's Notes
From the design team behind Wingspan, Propolis brings the same knack for elegant engine-building to a charming beehive theme. The area-control layer adds a competitive edge that's a bit sharper-elbowed than Wingspan's peaceful bird-watching. At just 30 minutes and moderate complexity, it's an accessible but meaty engine-builder that should appeal to fans of tight, efficient Euro design. Its low downtime grade (B) keeps the pace brisk even at a full table.
What we like
- Designed by the acclaimed Wingspan design team.
- Tight 30-minute playtime for a full worker-placement/engine-building experience.
- Solo mode built in.
- Charming bee/hive theme layered over solid Euro mechanics.
Keep in mind
- As a 2025 release, it's not yet widely reviewed or play-tested by the community.
- Area-majority competition may feel at odds with the cozy theme for some players.
Who it's for
Good for 1-4 players aged 10+ who enjoy engine-building and worker-placement games; works nicely for both solo play and family strategy nights.
