It’s fun before science with Photosynthesis, say Dr Louise Robinson and Dr Ian Turner.
WHAT IS PHOTOSYNTHESIS?
Thankfully this game is not about our least favourite subject when studying biology, but growing trees. In the game players aim to grow their particular variety of tree (gorgeous game pieces!) and spread their seeds in the sunlight of a small and fertile forest. As the trees grow their leaves are touched by the sun and players collect light points which they can reinvest in their blooming forest. When a tree is the largest possible and at the end of its life cycle players can remove it to score points and start the cycle anew.
IS IT FUN?
Certainly, it is no surprise it won multiple awards when initially released. In the first turn players place their smallest trees (they come in three sizes) around the board, then the sun comes up and players harvest light tokens. Each turn, players can use light tokens to buy seeds or trees and place them on the board. Seeds must be placed next to trees, and you can only grow seeds and trees in sequence (big trees take time and a lot of light to grow!).
Key strategic decisions are based around what to invest in and tree placement. Location is everything in this game as trees covered by the shadow of their taller rivals do not get any light points, creating a perfect game of developing your own plan while trying to scupper your opponents. The game is won by scoring points which you do by ‘removing’ (felling?) the tallest tree from the board; beautifully, this returns to your resource base to be regrown.
IS IT EDUCATIONAL?
The game is absolutely beautiful; different sized, vibrantly coloured trees really capture the essence of the game. In addition, the sun is attached to the board and revolves around the outside creating a really endearing mechanic that aligns to the cycles of gameplay. Fun as it is, there is very little education value here beyond the basics of seeds growing into trees and the importance of light; if you are hoping to learn a lot about photosynthesis, then playing this game is not the answer.
CONCLUSION:
A must play – so much fun and packed full of strategy, moving your little trees around is innately satisfying. But only if you are not too concerned about the lack of science.
DETAILS:
- Age 8+
- 2-4 players
- 45-60 minutes
- Blue Orange
- Dr Louise Robinson is Lecturer in Forensic Biology and Dr Ian Turner an Associate Professor in Learning and Teaching, both work at the University of Derby.
