Parks Board Game Buying Guide

Parks is a scenic board game that allows players to immerse themselves in the beauty of the United States’ national parks system. Released in 2019, this game allows players to explore various natural spaces, collect resources, take photographs, and admire the stunning artwork that showcases the diversity of the nation’s parks. If you’re interested in purchasing this game but aren’t quite sure where to start, this Parks board game buying guide can help. We will provide some key information about the game, outline factors to keep in mind when selecting it, and offer some tips to help you enjoy your purchase.

Understanding the Game

Before you can purchase Parks, it’s important to understand what it is all about. Parks is a board game that requires 1-5 players to strategize and compete to explore all of the national parks in the game’s fictitious Parks system before the end of the game. When players take turns exploring natural wonders and hiking trails, they gain tokens that can be used to move their hikers or reserve campsites. One of the highlights of the game is definitely the artwork. The game designers didn’t skimp on the visuals, and each of the national parks in the game is depicted in beautiful and realistic illustrations that are sure to impress any hiking enthusiast or nature lover. Overall, Parks is a great option for anyone who loves board games and natural beauty.

Factors to Consider

When selecting a Parks board game, it’s important to consider several factors. Here are some of the most important components to keep in mind when making your selection.

Number of Players

The Parks board game accommodates between 1-5 players, but it’s important to consider how many players will typically join in on your game nights. If you plan on playing primarily with a large group of people, you may want to consider other board games that can accommodate even more players, like the popular game Codenames. But if you’re looking to play primarily with two players, Parks could be a fantastic option.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Parks offers a unique gameplay experience that can require strategy and planning, with mechanics like worker placement, set collecting, and resource management. If these types of mechanics are your cup of tea, then you may love the challenge that Parks offers. However, if you prefer simpler, more casual games that can be played with family or friends that aren’t as experienced with more involved board games, you may want to look at games like Ticket to Ride or Carcassonne instead.

Artwork and Theme

The theme of Parks is centered around national parks – if you’re someone that loves the great outdoors and thinks a game all about it sounds appealing, well, you’d be right! This game features some of the most beautiful artwork seen in any board game, capturing the essence of nature in a perfectly elegant style. If you’re not one for the great outdoors or aren’t a fan of slightly more detailed artwork, Parks may not be the game for you.

Size and Storage

Parks takes up a fair amount of table space when in play, so if you’re someone with limited space or tight quarters to work with, you may need to consider alternative board games that have a smaller more compact size. However, if you have ample space and want to see national parks come to life on your table, then you really can’t go wrong with Parks.

Tips for Playing Parks

If you’ve decided that Parks is the board game for you, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your experience:

Play with Friends Who Appreciate the Theme

As mentioned earlier, the theme of Parks is all about the great outdoors and the beautiful national parks of our country. Though it’s not a necessity, playing with people who share your appreciation of nature can work in your favor – everyone will be that much more invested in exploring and immersing themselves in this beautiful world.

Pay Attention to Seasonal Bonuses

Parks is designed to move through seasons as you play, with different parks offering different perks during different times of the year. Keep an eye on what bonuses are available so that you can take advantage of them while you can.

Don't Discount the Value of Taking Photos

While it may seem more important to focus on collecting resources or taking hikers on challenging treks throughout the parks, taking photos can be a powerful way to earn bonus points that can add up quickly. Be sure to take time out of your gameplay to snap some shots of the beautiful landscapes, animals, and iconic sights that you come across throughout the game.

Stay Focused on Your Goals

Players must balance the need to explore as many parks as possible with the limitations of their resources and time. Focusing on your goals for the gameplay can ultimately help you to succeed during the end of game scoring that can propel you toward victory.

Conclusion

Parks is a board game adventure that allows players to explore the natural beauty of America’s national parks from the comfort of their homes. When considering whether or not Parks is the right game for you, it’s essential to consider things like the game’s mechanics, the number of players it can support, as well as its artwork and storage requirements. By following the tips we’ve provided here, you can dive into this game headfirst with plenty of confidence and an eye on victory. So, buy your own copy of Parks and gather some friends, and see if you have what it takes to become the ultimate park ranger.