Doomlings is a quirky and strategic “Tableau Building” card game from Doomling Games where players compete to build the most successful species before the inevitable end of the world. Think of Doomlings as a mix of card manipulation and chaotic fun. Each player controls a species trying to outwit opponents and survive until the inevitable apocalypse — but it’s all about how you play your cards, not just the luck of the draw.
Player Count: 2-6
Play Time: 30-45 minutes
Ages: 10+
MSRP: $24.99
What’s in the box?
This review pertains to the Doomlings Classic Card Game. The box is 7″ x 4″ x 3″. The box reminds me of an old Pokemon card storage box. The box has a holofoil effect, and can hold sleeved cards as well as some expansions. The box contains:
- 1 Rules Sheet
- 167 cards to play Doomlings
- 1 Mystery Holofoil card
Gameplay:
Somewhere on a doomed planet, life has emerged – the Doomlings species. Players are in charge of their own Doomlings species. Each player is trying to score the most points by playing Traits cards from their hands into their tableau. They are trying to help their Doomlings survive the inevitable end of the world.
From the manufacturer: “The object of the game is to score the most points before the world ends! Score points by playing traits on your turn. Each trait has a point value. Traits can have special effects like steal, swap, discard and more! Play traits over multiple rounds, called Ages. Ages introduce a new rule for that round. But be warned… Hidden in the ages are Catastrophes! Catastrophes are special rounds with adverse rules & effects, forcing you to suddenly adapt your strategy. After the third catastrophe strikes, the world ends! The player with the most points wins!”
As we mentioned earlier, Doomlings is a Tableau Building card game. Each player has a personal tableau of cards that they build up and manipulate throughout the game.
Your hand of cards is your “Gene Pool”. Your hand size can increase or decrease at the game progresses. Catastrophes will usually make your gene pool decrease, while some traits played into your tableau will increase your gene pool.
The game is simple to pick up but provides layers of depth with each play. Players simply play one card from their hand into their Tableau each round. You start by creating a species with an initial trait. Cards you play might affect your species or the world at large.
The game progresses over several rounds as players draw cards, play them, and manage their species. You continue to do this over the course of 10 to 13 rounds (Ages) until the world ends.
Pros:
- Theme – Doomlings nails its end-of-the-world theme with a nice lighthearted tone.
- Easy to Learn: The rules are pretty straightforward, making it perfect for newcomers. You’ll be up and running in 5 to 10 minutes.
- Replayability: With a wide variety of cards and different combinations, each game should play out differently.
- Fun Artwork: The game’s design and creatures are quirky and fun, adding a lot of charm to the gameplay.
- Player Interaction: Doomlings has a nice mix of competitive and cooperative elements, especially with the unpredictable apocalyptic events and traits that can change the rules for everyone.
- Short Play Time: The game’s pace keeps it engaging for casual gamers without overstaying its welcome.
- Six Players!: This will be great for many gaming groups. As you might know, we’re huge fans of six player games here at the Pojo HQ. 😉
Cons:
- Can Be Too Random: Some players may not love the amount of luck involved, as certain Catastrophe cards and Trait cards can drastically change the outcome in unexpected ways.
- Too Light?: Some people might find the gameplay too light. But there is usually some decent decision-making every turn.
Final Thoughts:
Doomlings is a lighthearted, fun, and occasionally chaotic game that offers a great mix of humor, strategy, and just the right amount of randomness. While it’s not as deeply strategic as some heavier games, its easy-to-learn mechanics and fast playtime make it a great choice for family game nights or a casual gaming session with friends. If you’re looking for a game that’s quick to play and filled with quirky creatures and apocalyptic fun, Doomlings is well worth checking out.
Rating: 4.5 outta 5 – Fun, fast, and full of quirky charm.
Pojo Note: If you like this base game, you can add more fun accessories to your Doomlings collection with expansions, playmats, booster packs, card sleeves and more. It would be nice to own the playmats if you wind up playing Doomlings a lot. 😉
Click here to check the current prices at the Doomlings Amazon Store.
