Great review of the prototype. You’ll be glad to hear that we’ve already addressed all of the concerns that you have in the video. The prototype was where we were at in development back in March. We have continued to fine-tune and add refinements to this robust yet simple system to make the gaming experience better, and more balanced.
I have never "invested" in a board game before, having only purchasd games for personal use or gifts. But I have a LOT of confidence in mosaic and believe it could be something I could resell aftermarket. Do I have to be a retail store owner to purchase the 6 pack of games or can ANYBODY do so? If I can do so, what place would be best for me to sell the four games (I'd want to keep one for myself and give one away)? Does Alex have a specific video about selling games?
I just received my copy from Kickstarter and my group had a total blast, we can't remember when was the last time we enjoyed a game so much ... I am really surprised no one on youtube thinks this was in the top 10 of the year ... because it beats anything I have seen in my opinion!
When I saw the way they were listening to the backers with a change in player boards and a score tracker etc...I was sold. Backed and looking forward to this one ( expansions with ships teased for the future )
@@rb4551 I personally prefer the new player board because table space is a real thing. Imho, we don't need to have an over large board to count our resources and how many we generate each turn. I setup Galaxy hunter on my table recently and it was taking a lot of space to the point that I know not every table would be able to set it up with 4-5 players.
I took interest in it after you had given it really rave reviews and was underwhelmed (on Tabletopia) though I had fun, It's hard to call it a civ game just as it's hard to call tapestry as such. I don't understand how we just build towns and cities wherever. The first city in Northern Italy, then a farming town in Cairo. And then I build two towns next to your city in Turkey which is surrounded by your military units. The map might as well be meaningless. The area control element is fine, but it should branch out like a real civilization would. Also, the building market gets jammed up with towns and/or weaker cards and there is certainly a cost to take a weak one and let the next player take the good one on top of the deck. The tech market works well because you can take weaker cards for the symbols to hit golden ages, so that part works well. Got to keep score on a score pad...strange for this type of game. Anyway, I hope they can make some big adjustments before it comes to retail because my friend was hoping this was the civ for him, sadly we are both passing.
My opinion is the same. It is generally a good concept, but I feel it needs more refinement. The developers did address some of the issues you listed, like introducing a (sadly one-time) option to clear a clogged card market (though you could just draw blind as a simple solution) or introduce additional game-ending conditions, like reaching a certain number of achievements (which would count as if a scoring card was drawn). The thing is, I don’t believe this justifies the price for what is. I am certain they will adjust all the flaws eventually, but I’d rather wait for a revised edition before going in. By the way, I believe a comparison with Terraforming Mars is warranted, as there is also some random element. However, Terraforming Mars is far mire refined and far less expensive, so I’d go for that instead.
I totally hear that. I only started paying attention after the comparisons to Terraforming Mars, so I walked in expecting that far more than a civ game and in that sense, it didn't disappoint.
@@BoardGameCo I agree not every game is for everyone, my group absulutly hated Ark nova...yet it is in 4th place on boardgame geek... we could not understand what was the hype about, easily one of the most disappointing and boring games we ever played .. yet on the other hand we absulutly loved the Mosaic ...
This is the review I've been looking for. Backed at 1$ been debating it back and forth. I love Tableau/Engine building games with many paths to victory, the playtime sounds much better than others in the genre too, I'm just not as excited about civ builders/ancient history theme, so that's my current hangup.
Is there a Top 10 Tableau/Engine games video out there? I like Terraforming Mars but it tends to go longer than I like. This sounds like a nice alternative but are there others I should consider that aren't as long as TM?
@@BayonetRecon there might be a video on it but I have yet to find it. I love TM as well but it is too long. I think Terraforming Mars Ares Expedition will be the right combination of mechanics and length, it isn't out yet. Personally the ones I've played in order of complexity/game length: Terraforming Mars, Everdell, Wingspan, Space Base, Splendor
It appears that this game manages to achieve was Tapestry was trying to do. It is no small feat to create a civilization game that completes in under two hours, but still offer deep and interesting choices in the gameplay. Excited to see how they changed the military to make it a more valid path to victory.
I sort of agree...I would argue Tapestry feels more like a civ game, but both are compromises. For myself I enioy the game a lot...but it's more of a tableu builder.
@@BoardGameCo ah, for some reason I did not get notice for the response comment. So unfortunately after playing through it at 3 player count with fairly experience board gamer friends in short my group recognize what you noted as nitpicky that we saw as a bit more of larger flaws. I say unfortunate as I wanted a reason to back the game as it sounds great and would enjoy a Civ game in my collection. It is also unfortunate as I suspect many will be swayed from your own opinion review as you gave it a 5/5 and have even discuss how few 5 you gave out in the past...not to dive to deep in here as myself I do try to avoid full review until the final product is released but the influence here I think may lead some who do not test it out to disappointment. Don't get me wrong the game was still fun but from watching your video alone and critique given it did not sound like a 5/5 for yourself though you pushed it to this number again which may weigh on some thoughts. But this is a mere reflecting point as I understand that possibly you truly feel the smaller nitpick items did deserve to still rate it a 5 vs a 4.5 or 4 for yourself. Anyhow I likely could go on in a lengthy discussion about it but will close on a positive aspect of it does sound like the company is listening and implementing changes though I am very curious what the final product looks like. I also hope I am proven wrong and the game excel and really does work out the kinks as the core idea seems great. Also ack the company notes many positive changes but since the mod is what people have available currently, it likely after people play it they are walking away like myself who was looking for a reason to back it.
What about the balance issues people discuss on BGG? Have you experienced any of those? I know it's a prototype but apparently, the designer's track record regarding this problem is mixed. And could you see yourself playing Mosaic rather than Terraforming Mars in the long run?
Haven't experienced any obvious balance issues yet, not saying they aren't there but we haven't noticed them past the note about military. And yes, this is a less rewarding TM but in half the time....this will definitely hit the table.
Best civ game at this date. Faster than other behemoths that take foooorever to play and finish. It has great production value and it is gorgeous to look at. Easy to teach and learn and fun to play. Can't wait to play the expansion also.
We just received a copy and had a blast ... my group absulutly loved it and was hooked from the moment we open the box ... in my opinion best game this year
"I haven't won Mosaic yet, yet I've had a fun time every time I've played it." As someone who tends to lose when playing tableau builders, this is a key feature! ;) So what was the most rewarding tableau builder you played? Was it TM or something else?
I wish they had more details to share about the solo mode that is being developed. I like the concept but would primarily play it solo. The price point is too high for me to take a chance at this stage. 😕
Hey Alex, great review definitely looking at purchasing this game now. I hope to have your thoughts on Edict Solar upcoming kickstarter game on my crosshairs.
Tapestry is a heavily abstracted Civ game, my group dint like it, it was not logical in its progression, it was point salad, and unsatisfying in terms on understanding your progress. How do you feel this plays in initial comparison, thx
Appreciate the review! Seems like most content creators are pretty positive about the game. I've seen a few bgg threads that are much harsher. But I put less stock in self-proclaimed euro-game experts complaining in a bgg thread. I have heard that the geographic map has no tactical value - you've just got several buckets. Another negative I've heard is that technology is abstracted in a similar way as Tapestry. I guess tech trees are difficult to implement in a streamlined civ game. What do you think about the various miniatures? Do they add significant value to the gameplay? Or would the tokens be fine? I'm trying to have less plastic taking up space on my shelves. Thanks!
@@BoardGameCo Yes, if it gives a civ-like experience in a relatively short time frame, and the game is actually fun, it should be better than most recent attempts. I guess I gotta decide how much of a deluxified game I want. I have mixed feelings about minis :)
I am so torn on this game. I like the idea but I am concerned about being able to build anywhere. And the other fiddly issues…. It’s been keeping me from jumping in.
I tried this game on Tabletopia and had a wonderful time playing. The play did help me decide to not back the kickstarter though. My biggest complaint was with the technology cards. Each card has a prerequisite, and at the beginning, playing the puzzle of how to get the correct prerequisites to get the cards I wanted was fun. But then at some point I had so many technology cards, that challenge just disappeared. The challenge does shift at that point to obtain enough of a certain type to claim the reward cards, but it still deflated the cards influence. Also, the miniatures seem superfluous and over produced. I may pick this up later, but for not, Nations, Gentes, and Tapestry will get my civilization game table time.
This or The Witcher...hmmm. I feel there will be lots of second hand copies of The Witcher going around shortly after the release but at same time I want all the minis....but this looks in my wheelhouse too.
I didn't want to interrupt your Live because I appreciate the fact that you're doing this, and it isn't a dialog between us, but regarding your response... Come-on-Alex, Obviously, we can have different opinions, but.... What do you mean by "I don't see how Mosaic is a race"..? Are you for real, bud..? Not only it's a race, it is a MULTI-RACE. Or at least, the multi-race after the achievements and be the first who complete sets is a core mechanic in the game. This isn't even a matter of perspective, opinion, or experience... It's a fact. How can you not see it..? Are you really not seeing it..?
My vote for this year's abstract civ game goes to imperium:classics/legends. Mosaic does not give us anything innovative imho.Just a moderate reimplementation of Terraforming Mars..
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....another game I wouldn't have bought if it were not for you! Thanks!
This...does not look better than Terraforming Mars as a tableau builder or Nations/Through the Ages as a civ game. Hard pass for me. The civ theme is nice and the game is fun, but the theme just doesn't come through in the mechanics. I just have games that do what it does better, but I'm glad people are enjoying it!
Lots of negativity about this one on BGG atm - I decided to stick with it based on this review (and a couple of others) but wondering why it is attracting such a 'marmite' reaction
Nooo seriously? I'm trying to avoid this game and is you favorite civilization game? I need a civilization game in my collection. Intimidating large 🤣🤣
Like he said at the beginning, it's a civ themed tableau builder. It looks fun, but it doesn't look like a game that feels like a civ builder...for a tableau civ game, Through the Ages and Nations are two proven games in that genre. This has a board, but the board is just area control. There's no adjacent expansion or combat or anything. Anyone can build anywhere. It doesn't look bad, but it feels more like Terraforming Mars than Civilization or Through the Ages.
@@johnathanrhoades7751 you have a good point. I'm not a super fan of civilization game (board and video) so maybe this Mosaic can be a good start... I like TM.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Great review of the prototype.
You’ll be glad to hear that we’ve already addressed all of the concerns that you have in the video.
The prototype was where we were at in development back in March. We have continued to fine-tune and add refinements to this robust yet simple system to make the gaming experience better, and more balanced.
Glad to hear :) I've been paying attention to the KS and seen some of the changes, very much looking forward to them :)
Could you let us know what has changed?
I have never "invested" in a board game before, having only purchasd games for personal use or gifts. But I have a LOT of confidence in mosaic and believe it could be something I could resell aftermarket. Do I have to be a retail store owner to purchase the 6 pack of games or can ANYBODY do so? If I can do so, what place would be best for me to sell the four games (I'd want to keep one for myself and give one away)? Does Alex have a specific video about selling games?
Great enthusiasm!... "It's just that fun!". You have me doubting my choice not to back this one ;-) Thanks again Alex.
It's really good...but also not a civ game. So depends what it is you're looking for :)
I just received my copy from Kickstarter and my group had a total blast, we can't remember when was the last time we enjoyed a game so much ... I am really surprised no one on youtube thinks this was in the top 10 of the year ... because it beats anything I have seen in my opinion!
When I saw the way they were listening to the backers with a change in player boards and a score tracker etc...I was sold. Backed and looking forward to this one ( expansions with ships teased for the future )
@@rb4551 I personally prefer the new player board because table space is a real thing. Imho, we don't need to have an over large board to count our resources and how many we generate each turn.
I setup Galaxy hunter on my table recently and it was taking a lot of space to the point that I know not every table would be able to set it up with 4-5 players.
Oh wow...totally missed something on ships....color me even more interested :)
I took interest in it after you had given it really rave reviews and was underwhelmed (on Tabletopia) though I had fun, It's hard to call it a civ game just as it's hard to call tapestry as such. I don't understand how we just build towns and cities wherever. The first city in Northern Italy, then a farming town in Cairo. And then I build two towns next to your city in Turkey which is surrounded by your military units. The map might as well be meaningless. The area control element is fine, but it should branch out like a real civilization would. Also, the building market gets jammed up with towns and/or weaker cards and there is certainly a cost to take a weak one and let the next player take the good one on top of the deck. The tech market works well because you can take weaker cards for the symbols to hit golden ages, so that part works well. Got to keep score on a score pad...strange for this type of game.
Anyway, I hope they can make some big adjustments before it comes to retail because my friend was hoping this was the civ for him, sadly we are both passing.
My opinion is the same. It is generally a good concept, but I feel it needs more refinement. The developers did address some of the issues you listed, like introducing a (sadly one-time) option to clear a clogged card market (though you could just draw blind as a simple solution) or introduce additional game-ending conditions, like reaching a certain number of achievements (which would count as if a scoring card was drawn). The thing is, I don’t believe this justifies the price for what is. I am certain they will adjust all the flaws eventually, but I’d rather wait for a revised edition before going in.
By the way, I believe a comparison with Terraforming Mars is warranted, as there is also some random element. However, Terraforming Mars is far mire refined and far less expensive, so I’d go for that instead.
I totally hear that. I only started paying attention after the comparisons to Terraforming Mars, so I walked in expecting that far more than a civ game and in that sense, it didn't disappoint.
Thanks for the review Alex! I really wasn't sure if this game was for me and now I know it's not :)
It's solid...but doesn't mean it's for you :)
@@BoardGameCo I agree not every game is for everyone, my group absulutly hated Ark nova...yet it is in 4th place on boardgame geek... we could not understand what was the hype about, easily one of the most disappointing and boring games we ever played .. yet on the other hand we absulutly loved the Mosaic ...
Ordered the Sphinx edition of this game recently. Really looking forward to playing.
Dude you are just plain awesome. Thanks for your constant efforts.
This is the review I've been looking for. Backed at 1$ been debating it back and forth. I love Tableau/Engine building games with many paths to victory, the playtime sounds much better than others in the genre too, I'm just not as excited about civ builders/ancient history theme, so that's my current hangup.
Is there a Top 10 Tableau/Engine games video out there? I like Terraforming Mars but it tends to go longer than I like. This sounds like a nice alternative but are there others I should consider that aren't as long as TM?
@@BayonetRecon there might be a video on it but I have yet to find it. I love TM as well but it is too long. I think Terraforming Mars Ares Expedition will be the right combination of mechanics and length, it isn't out yet.
Personally the ones I've played in order of complexity/game length: Terraforming Mars, Everdell, Wingspan, Space Base, Splendor
It appears that this game manages to achieve was Tapestry was trying to do. It is no small feat to create a civilization game that completes in under two hours, but still offer deep and interesting choices in the gameplay. Excited to see how they changed the military to make it a more valid path to victory.
I sort of agree...I would argue Tapestry feels more like a civ game, but both are compromises. For myself I enioy the game a lot...but it's more of a tableu builder.
@@BoardGameCo I see what you're saying I think. You felt the civilization theme more in Tapestry than in Mosaic right?
Thanks for the review Alex. Wasn't sure if this was a game for me...now I know it is...lol
Glad you enjoyed :)
My gaming group playing it tonight looking forward to trying it out
Nice, how was it?
@@BoardGameCo ah, for some reason I did not get notice for the response comment.
So unfortunately after playing through it at 3 player count with fairly experience board gamer friends in short my group recognize what you noted as nitpicky that we saw as a bit more of larger flaws. I say unfortunate as I wanted a reason to back the game as it sounds great and would enjoy a Civ game in my collection.
It is also unfortunate as I suspect many will be swayed from your own opinion review as you gave it a 5/5 and have even discuss how few 5 you gave out in the past...not to dive to deep in here as myself I do try to avoid full review until the final product is released but the influence here I think may lead some who do not test it out to disappointment. Don't get me wrong the game was still fun but from watching your video alone and critique given it did not sound like a 5/5 for yourself though you pushed it to this number again which may weigh on some thoughts. But this is a mere reflecting point as I understand that possibly you truly feel the smaller nitpick items did deserve to still rate it a 5 vs a 4.5 or 4 for yourself.
Anyhow I likely could go on in a lengthy discussion about it but will close on a positive aspect of it does sound like the company is listening and implementing changes though I am very curious what the final product looks like. I also hope I am proven wrong and the game excel and really does work out the kinks as the core idea seems great.
Also ack the company notes many positive changes but since the mod is what people have available currently, it likely after people play it they are walking away like myself who was looking for a reason to back it.
What about the balance issues people discuss on BGG? Have you experienced any of those? I know it's a prototype but apparently, the designer's track record regarding this problem is mixed. And could you see yourself playing Mosaic rather than Terraforming Mars in the long run?
Haven't experienced any obvious balance issues yet, not saying they aren't there but we haven't noticed them past the note about military. And yes, this is a less rewarding TM but in half the time....this will definitely hit the table.
@@BoardGameCo Great, thank you!
Best civ game at this date. Faster than other behemoths that take foooorever to play and finish. It has great production value and it is gorgeous to look at. Easy to teach and learn and fun to play. Can't wait to play the expansion also.
We just received a copy and had a blast ... my group absulutly loved it and was hooked from the moment we open the box ... in my opinion best game this year
"I haven't won Mosaic yet, yet I've had a fun time every time I've played it."
As someone who tends to lose when playing tableau builders, this is a key feature! ;)
So what was the most rewarding tableau builder you played? Was it TM or something else?
Terraforming Mars :)
I wish they had more details to share about the solo mode that is being developed. I like the concept but would primarily play it solo. The price point is too high for me to take a chance at this stage. 😕
Absolutely reasonable.
+1 for the 3 unit cap on military
Hey Alex, great review definitely looking at purchasing this game now.
I hope to have your thoughts on Edict Solar upcoming kickstarter game on my crosshairs.
Edict will be talking about more :)
Had some amazon cash back so I’m getting the retail version for 40$. Figured I couldn’t pass up a deal like that.
So what is the most rewarding tableau builder you've played?
Likely Terraforming Mars
Thanks Alex, another great review.... Any thoughts on Solo? (Fair enough if answer = no)
Hadn't tried it sorry :(
got to play at gencon, pretty good. sad its got a low rating from people's experience on tabletopia for UI issues.
Tapestry is a heavily abstracted Civ game, my group dint like it, it was not logical in its progression, it was point salad, and unsatisfying in terms on understanding your progress. How do you feel this plays in initial comparison, thx
Did i miss the rating and how it plays with 2 players?
5/5 :) With 2 it's almost as good...lacks a drop, but still solid.
Appreciate the review! Seems like most content creators are pretty positive about the game. I've seen a few bgg threads that are much harsher. But I put less stock in self-proclaimed euro-game experts complaining in a bgg thread.
I have heard that the geographic map has no tactical value - you've just got several buckets. Another negative I've heard is that technology is abstracted in a similar way as Tapestry. I guess tech trees are difficult to implement in a streamlined civ game.
What do you think about the various miniatures? Do they add significant value to the gameplay? Or would the tokens be fine? I'm trying to have less plastic taking up space on my shelves. Thanks!
Those are both going to be valid critiques....but it plays in 90-120 min and gives me a solid experience along the way.
@@BoardGameCo Yes, if it gives a civ-like experience in a relatively short time frame, and the game is actually fun, it should be better than most recent attempts. I guess I gotta decide how much of a deluxified game I want. I have mixed feelings about minis :)
I am so torn on this game. I like the idea but I am concerned about being able to build anywhere. And the other fiddly issues…. It’s been keeping me from jumping in.
Think of it like Terraforming Mars....you can also build anywhere there.
I tried this game on Tabletopia and had a wonderful time playing. The play did help me decide to not back the kickstarter though. My biggest complaint was with the technology cards. Each card has a prerequisite, and at the beginning, playing the puzzle of how to get the correct prerequisites to get the cards I wanted was fun. But then at some point I had so many technology cards, that challenge just disappeared. The challenge does shift at that point to obtain enough of a certain type to claim the reward cards, but it still deflated the cards influence. Also, the miniatures seem superfluous and over produced. I may pick this up later, but for not, Nations, Gentes, and Tapestry will get my civilization game table time.
Alex, I will get Clash of Cultures Monumental edition instead.
Solid choice but totally different game :)
Do you think this is better than Tapestry?
This or The Witcher...hmmm. I feel there will be lots of second hand copies of The Witcher going around shortly after the release but at same time I want all the minis....but this looks in my wheelhouse too.
I didn't want to interrupt your Live because I appreciate the fact that you're doing this, and it isn't a dialog between us, but regarding your response...
Come-on-Alex,
Obviously, we can have different opinions, but....
What do you mean by "I don't see how Mosaic is a race"..?
Are you for real, bud..?
Not only it's a race, it is a MULTI-RACE.
Or at least, the multi-race after the achievements and be the first who complete sets is a core mechanic in the game.
This isn't even a matter of perspective, opinion, or experience...
It's a fact.
How can you not see it..?
Are you really not seeing it..?
Simon sinek's doppelganger
I love Simon Sinek! That's high praise :)
It seems like a more streamlined Era of Tribes in some ways.
Interesting, I didn't love Era of Tribes...didn't like it at all in fact :)
Concerning to hear that military is underpowered. Seems to be something that needs adjusting big time.
They are already working on it :)
Glad I backed this
It's very solid :)
My vote for this year's abstract civ game goes to imperium:classics/legends. Mosaic does not give us anything innovative imho.Just a moderate reimplementation of Terraforming Mars..
I need to play Imperium :)
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....another game I wouldn't have bought if it were not for you! Thanks!
Apologies :)
How is this game compared to Clash of Cultures?
Not even close to CoC
Very different games, CoC is a real 4x, this is much more of a tableu builder.
My bank balance doesn't like you very much Alex 😆
What do you mean it doesn't like me? It doesn't exist not to like me ;)
Did the publisher specifically asked you not to mention EVEN ONCE the word: "race"..? 🤔
The mini races for achivments are the core of this game.
Yes, that was part of the contract. Definitely.
This...does not look better than Terraforming Mars as a tableau builder or Nations/Through the Ages as a civ game. Hard pass for me. The civ theme is nice and the game is fun, but the theme just doesn't come through in the mechanics. I just have games that do what it does better, but I'm glad people are enjoying it!
It's not better than either, but it's darn close and in half the time :)
Lots of negativity about this one on BGG atm - I decided to stick with it based on this review (and a couple of others) but wondering why it is attracting such a 'marmite' reaction
Ya I'm intrigued....I love it. I have minor balance complaints...but minor, and prototype :) I'd buy this if it were the final game :)
Sorry, but it wasn't clear: has Alex won a game of this yet? 😋
Nooo seriously? I'm trying to avoid this game and is you favorite civilization game? I need a civilization game in my collection.
Intimidating large 🤣🤣
Like he said at the beginning, it's a civ themed tableau builder. It looks fun, but it doesn't look like a game that feels like a civ builder...for a tableau civ game, Through the Ages and Nations are two proven games in that genre. This has a board, but the board is just area control. There's no adjacent expansion or combat or anything. Anyone can build anywhere. It doesn't look bad, but it feels more like Terraforming Mars than Civilization or Through the Ages.
Johnathan is on point :)
@@johnathanrhoades7751 you have a good point. I'm not a super fan of civilization game (board and video) so maybe this Mosaic can be a good start... I like TM.
...breathe sometimes...
Occasionally