Photosynthesis Game Review

1. Was it fun?

I found this game fun for the most part. The unique theme of growing trees and the strategic depth it offers can be very appealing. However, the game requires careful planning and tactical decisions, which can be quite stressful rather than not.

2. What were the player interactions?

Players compete for sunlight, which is crucial for growing their trees. The placement of trees can block sunlight from reaching other players’ trees, adding a layer of strategy and competition. Additionally, players need to anticipate and react to the moves of their opponents.

3. How long did it take to learn?

It took our group one very long and hard read through the rules to understand how to play. .

4. Would you play it again?

I found Photosynthesis to be enjoyable enough to play multiple times! The strategic depth and variability in each game make it replayable.

5. Analyze the game using the 3 act structure.

• Act 1 Players start by placing their initial trees on the board. They learn the basic mechanics of collecting sunlight and growing trees.
• Act 2 (As the game progresses, players start to compete more aggressively for sunlight. They strategically place and grow their trees while trying to block their opponents.
• Act 3 The game reaches its climax as players harvest their largest trees for points. The final rounds are critical as players make their last moves to maximize their score and outmaneuver their opponents.

5. What are the collaborative and/or competitive aspects of the game?

Photosynthesis is primarily a competitive game. Players compete for limited sunlight and space on the board. There is little to no collaboration, as each player aims to outscore the others by growing and harvesting their trees more effectively.

7. What is the game’s metaphor and which of the game’s mechanics standout?

• Sunlight Collection: Players collect sunlight points based on the position and size of their trees.
• Tree Growth: Players use sunlight points to grow their trees from seeds to large trees.
• Blocking Sunlight: The strategic placement of trees can block sunlight from reaching other players’ trees, adding a competitive edge.

These mechanics highlight the game’s theme of growth and competition in nature.