by schnapes
This is based on five games across the first two scenarios, wasn't really much out there so thought I'd chip in.Robinson Crusoe is a cooperative game utilizing worker placement to drive the actions - I think we have to be careful here as even though it's work placement, it's not exactly very tactical in that respect so don't expect Agricola as there are only two resources to manage meaning there won't be any tough choices about building an engine or making clever combos.
That said, you DO have choices, and there is a LOT to choose from, from which invention to create, which unique skill to use, should you arrange the camp to benefit everyone, hunt animals, upgrade shelter/weapons/defenses, gather resources or explore new places - however, most decisions WILL benefit the group so it's not the end of the world which one you pick. I think this was the designer's intention to stop leader syndrome as there isn't a single answer, I'd disagree that it does as someone with that tendency will still want to make your choice for you but it's admirable nonetheless. On the flip side it does make each choice less consequential so unlike Pandemic which requires Herculean planning to make the system "click" into place, here it feels a lot "lighter" and there's less chance of a few decisions screwing the game up - that said, it's by no means an easy game.
Finally, surprisingly the strongest factor in this game is the story - this is up there with Arkham Horror with very thematic action cards that are interesting and roll back into the story, as an example you may draw an action event saying you ate some dodgy berries, you will then put a marker on your character to indicate so, and then this card is shuffled into the main event so that some time later your character will get a stomach ache affecting the game later on...this is genius, and is the first mechanism I've seen that does it so ! Even without it, the events themselves are interesting and well written often giving the players MORE choices to make !!
In summary, Robinsoe Crusoe is a highly thematic game with a worker placement heart, it is for those investing in a story (and choices!) rather than those interested in deep tactical gameplay. Once you've mastered the rules, it plays quickly and goes at a very brisk pace and with six scenarios to choose from it'll be a long time before you get bored.
As a final word of warning, and I need to re-iterate this, if you're more of a hardcore gamer looking for deep strategies to your coops (i.e Pandemic or Flashpoint), the amount of choices and the need for making the "perfect" choice will mean a very slow and frustrating experience...!