Gamewell Games Strikes Gold with Their Newest Card Game, Prospector
If you’re looking to bring something new to your next game night, Prospector by Gamewell Games is worth a serious look. It’s a fast-paced, trick-taking game with a gold rush theme, some clever twists, and just enough strategy to keep everyone at the table engaged from start to finish.
Gamewell Games is a small, up-and-coming publisher, and Prospector feels like the kind of breakout title that puts a company on the map. At $19.99, it’s accessible, portable, and easy to teach, but there’s enough depth here to keep you coming back.
In Prospector, players take on the role of—yes—prospectors, competing to mine the most valuable ore from a central deck. Each round plays out over eight tricks. You’ll play ore cards, try to follow suit (ore type), and use special cards like Bandits and Dynamite to throw off your opponents. Bandits always win the trick unless another Bandit sneaks in later. Dynamite? It blows the whole thing up, and no one wins.
The twist is in the objective system. Each round has a goal—maybe you’re mining for gold, maybe you’re trying to win the most tricks, or maybe you’re going after special-sized ore like flakes or nuggets. At the end of each round, the player with the highest score gets to choose the next round’s objective. It keeps the gameplay evolving and adds a layer of strategy beyond just playing your highest card.
Reviews from early players have been consistently positive. Families like that it’s simple enough for kids (ages 8 and up), but still interesting for adults. One reviewer mentioned their six-year-old beat the whole table. Another praised the balance of strategy and luck, and said it’s now a go-to for casual game nights.
It’s also worth mentioning the production quality. The artwork has a strong Old West feel without being overdone, and the cards are clearly designed with functionality in mind. It’s the kind of game that looks good on the table and holds up to repeated play.
Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned gamer with a shelf full of strategy titles, Prospector is a game you’ll want in your collection. It’s fresh, smart, and delivers that satisfying feeling of pulling off a perfect play just when you need it.
Gamewell Games seems to know what they’re doing, and if Prospector is any indication of what they’ve got coming, they’re a company to keep an eye on. You can learn more or order the game directly from their website at playgamewellgames.com.
If you like trick-taking games but want something fresh—and fun to play with both friends and family—Prospector is a solid bet.