North Star Games will release a new version of its Evolution board game, as well as a new Evolution: Flight Expansion.  Like the first version (see “‘Evolution,’ A Strategy Game”), the game is currently seeking funding through Kickstarter.

(Click either image for larger view.)

The Evolution Game System includes updated game rules based on feedback from fans. Like the original version, players attempt to keep their species alive through an ever-changing environment, adapting their traits to best survive.  Based on research by a Russian evolutionary biologist, the game was a finalist for The Escapist “Game of the Year” in 2014, and was nominated for four Golden Geek awards.

The Evolution:  Flight Expansion introduces flying animals to the game.  These animals have numerous advantages, such as the ability to evade ground-based predators and travel to locations with better food supplies.  But there are increased food requirements and other costs associated with choosing flight.

Both the new edition of the base game and the new expansion feature watercolor illustrations by renowned wildlife artist Catherine Hamilton.

The Kickstarter campaign surpassed its $40,000 goal and will be funded on May 24, having raised $140,000 from 2,841 backers as of this writing.  A retailer backer tier is part of the campaign, including six copies of Evolution:  Flight Expansion and all stretch goals for $80.00.  Backer fulfillment is planned for August, with a trade release to follow in September.