Space is getting tight in Small World, there are just too many races living off the land. In this light-hearted and zany civilization game, it is your goal to take over as much territory as possible while balancing how many races you want to head into the fight with. The game is very much about strategic combat and while simple to learn, has many facets to master. This is our Small World Review.
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Fun (9 out of 10)
There is no shortage of options and the balance of holding strong but at the same time expanding your empire makes for a very fun experience. Just the simple mechanic of randomly mixing creatures and special abilities can make races play dramatically different. It is also nice to not have random elements like dice screwing up your gameplay if it is not your lucky night. It is just edge of your seat strategy. As we will tell you over and over in this Small World review, this is a good one.
Replayability (8 out of 10)
Small World was nice enough to provide a completely different map board depending on how many players participate which should show you their passion for having a balanced board. Though the core board is the same, the mix of races, special abilities and map invasion entrance points, makes for a completely new game every time. The fun is in the combat strategy and with the way the game is set up, it is never the same two games in a row.
Player Interaction (8 out of 10)
The highest marks in this Small World review go to player interaction. It is a conquest civilization game so it is all about player interaction. For the most part, you can be off building your empire, but the world is in fact too small and you will need to bump heads with your opponents. It is not just about the aggressions though, a good balance is the most important thing. If you go too hard against another player, you will trade units in a senseless war and never win. You have to make friends and make the right moves.
Quality (10 out of 10)
Balance can be a huge problem or a huge benefit and in Small World, it is the latter. There are so many different races and powers that have to work together, yet there is no one thing, in particular, that is too powerful. This machine is well oiled and has set the stage for the amazing expansions to come. One thing about Small World is that it is heavy. There are so many components and they are all of a high caliber. This game from conception to production is well done. As far as this Small World review is concerned, the designers have created a game that will last the test of time.
Art & Style (7 out of 10)
It is fitting that Small is in the title because some talented artists had to make tokens for all sorts of races that were special. Races that even though would be on a small tile, but have a presence, uniqueness and attitude. Even the board itself has many little flourishes that add to the game. There is nothing over the top fantastic here, but it is well put together for what it is.
– IN CLOSING –
Small World Review | Board Game Halv

Small World is kind of Risk meets Carcassonne. The combat and expansion is important, but the strategic resource control is everything. This game is a leader in the category of combat meets civilization, it tops everyone's lists and for good reason. We recommend this game highly if you are looking for this mix of gameplay. This has been our Small World review.
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8.4
See the full explanation of the judging criteria here.