Codex Naturalis^*

Codex Naturalis is a language-independent card and tableau game in which players continue the work of an illuminating monk, assembling a medieval manuscript that catalogs the living species of primeval forests. Card by card you build your own manuscript, and the order in which you arrange the pages determines your success. Its unusual double-sided card design and quick setup make it an appealing, compact tableau-builder.

On your turn you overlap a card from your hand onto the corners of cards already in play, chaining resources that in turn unlock more valuable gold cards and points. Cards can also be played face down as a pure resource when needed. At the end, public objectives and one secret objective are scored. Suited for 2 to 4 players from around age 10 at roughly 30 to 45 minutes, it is ideal for newcomers and families.