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THE GAME FILE · BASE GAME

Forbidden Island

Coordinate a team to retrieve treasures before an island sinks.

Players2–4base game
Playing time30 minpublisher estimate
Rulesmoderateour assessment

BEFORE YOU CHOOSE

What to know

Everyone is trying to save the treasures and escape together. Show how the island can sink before discussing individual moves, so players understand when helping a teammate matters more than moving toward a treasure.

Learning the rules

Players share a goal but have different roles, and the board changes as the island floods.

Planning your time

Allow extra time to set up, explain the rules, and pack away.