“Mariposas” is a board game designed by Elizabeth Hargrave, known for her breakout success with “Wingspan.” The game is centered around the theme of the monarch butterfly’s migration. Players guide generations of monarch butterflies from Mexico through North America and back again across three seasons.
The game is a combination of set collection and movement across a map that represents the geographic path of the butterflies’ real-life migration. Each player aims to collect sets of specific butterfly generations by landing on spaces that allow them to gather life cycle cards and other bonuses. The game is structured into three different scoring periods—spring, summer, and fall—each with its own objectives and opportunities for points.
“Mariposas” is praised for its beautiful artwork, educational value, and engaging gameplay. It provides a balance of strategic planning and adaptability, as players must respond to changing conditions and opportunities on the board to ensure their butterflies complete their journey and contribute to the final score.
