Spirit Island Review: The Best Cooperative Game You'll Ever Lose
A full review of Spirit Island — the heavy cooperative strategy game where you play as nature spirits defending an island from colonization.
Spirit Island ($55) earns a strong recommendation as the best cooperative board game for experienced players because it delivers the deepest strategic puzzle in the genre -- you play as elemental spirits defending an island against colonizers, and the branching power combinations create a challenge that remains fresh after 100+ plays. It is not for beginners; the learning curve is steep and sessions run 90-120 minutes. For groups willing to invest that effort, nothing else in cooperative gaming matches it.
Neoprene gaming surface that makes cards easy to pick up, keeps components from sliding, and protects your table in one roll-up mat.
- Cards and tiles pick up easily off the neoprene surface
- Protects your table from scratches, spills, and component wear
- Rolls up for compact storage between game nights
- Reduces component sliding and noise during play
- Takes up noticeable storage space when rolled
- Higher-end mats carry a premium price tag
- Sizing can be tricky for non-rectangular or oversized tables
Prices checked Apr 2026
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