Photosynthesis Game

Another excellent entry into the "science + fun" category of board games! The goal of Photosynthesis is to grow a thriving forest of trees by strategically planting them around the hexagonal "forest-to-be." The soil is variegated from a tan exterior to a deep green interior; trees closer to the center earn more points when their life cycles end. Play begins as players plant two small trees of their own color along the exterior edge. Each turn consists of two phases: Photosynthesis and Life Cycle. The first rotates the "sun" and generates "Light Points" for each tree in direct sunlight (1 for small trees, 2 for medium, and 3 for large). But beware! As the sun travels around the board, every tree casts a shadow, preventing trees behind from earning points. So, while having trees in the middle is beneficial, it's also risky, as opponent's taller trees (and yours!) will often sap light points from those closer to the center. The second phase, Life Cycle, allows players to buy seeds, plant seeds next to their trees, and end the life cycle of large trees to collect Scoring Tokens. Once the sun makes 3 revolutions around the board, the game ends, and the player with the most points from Scoring Tokens and Light Tokens wins! For 2-4 players. 30-60-minute playtime.