What do these ratings say about Forbidden Island?

What kind of game is Forbidden Island?

Forbidden Island balances system and theme, giving you focused mechanics while still delivering a clear sense of meaning.

How interactive is Forbidden Island?

Forbidden Island offers a balanced level of interaction where you still do your own thing, but opponent decisions matter. It creates shared tension without becoming overly confrontational.

What is the presentation of Forbidden Island like?

Forbidden Island has a polished look that supports gameplay without overpowering it. Expect a pleasant table presence with artwork that complements the game flow.

How strategic is Forbidden Island?

Forbidden Island sits in a middle lane where planning matters, but you can still adapt on the fly. It offers strategic decisions without demanding exhaustive optimization every turn.

How hard is Forbidden Island to learn?

Forbidden Island has moderate complexity, combining approachable core rules with enough depth to stay interesting. Most groups can learn it in a session and grow into stronger play over time.

These ratings reflect player feedback. If it doesn’t match your experience, add your rating to help refine it.

Forbidden Island

Cooperative race to collect treasures on a sinking island; teamwork is essential.

2010 • 2–4

Average rating: 3.43
Players: 2–4
Avg time: 30 min
Age: 10+

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Overview

In Forbidden Island, players work together as a team of adventurers racing against time to capture four sacred treasures before the island sinks beneath the waves. Each player has a unique ability that aids the team, and you'll need to coordinate your actions to explore the island, shore up sinking locations, and ultimately claim the treasures.

As the game progresses, more and more tiles representing the island flood and are removed from the game, making movement more difficult and increasing the pressure. If too many locations sink, or if the team can't reach the extraction point after securing the treasures, everyone loses!