The Game of Birds*

The Game of Birds is a card game from KOSMOS for 2 to 4 players aged 10+, in which you act as conservationists protecting threatened birds. It was designed by author Robert Macfarlane together with Michael Rieneck, and its structure draws on the "Seven Wonders" of birdlife: Nest, Flight, Feather, Egg, Beak, Migration and Song. A good choice for families looking for a nature-themed set-collection game.

What's it about?

You compete to become the most successful conservator of threatened birds, protecting them from modern threats while building a strong personal display that improves their chances of survival.

How it plays

  1. The game lasts a fixed number of rounds: eight with two or four players, nine with three – so everyone starts equally often.
  2. You collect cards, aiming for a display containing all seven Bird Wonders, with three cards of the same Wonder in each column.
  3. Dice and a variable set-up add variety.
  4. At the end you score protected birds, Conservation Medals and Bonus Tiles; each Threat Card costs three points.

What makes it special?

The theme is built into the scoring: threats cost points, protection earns them. Organising the collection around the seven Bird Wonders gives the set collection a clear shape.

Who is it for?

Families and casual players interested in nature and birds who want an accessible set-collection card game.

We like The Game of Birds so much that we recommend it in the following board game recommendation lists 2026

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🪜 Love The Game of Birds? Ready for more – the staircase shows three games, each a little more demanding, and what each one adds.