24 February 2025
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Darrington Press has announced Solar Gardens, a brand-new board game, positioned to launch in the Summer of 2025. Set in a prosperous future, you’ll be building a rooftop garden that’s as architecturally rich as it is carbon neutral.
Who Are Darrington Press?
Eco-focused titles with a sustainable edge are commonplace in the tabletop industry today, and it seems Darrington Press has ambitions to join the field. Launching Solar Gardens, the developer adds to their long list of popular titles which includes Daggerheart, For The Queen, Till The Last Grasp and Queen By Midnight.
The name Darrington Press may be familiar to some as the tabletop game imprint of Critical Role Productions. The RPG-loving organisation might have made a name for itself due to its unique YouTube and Twitch programming, but it has also made an impact in the board game space.
Solar Gardens is designed by Alex Cutler of Critter Kitchen and Expancity fame. He is joined by MonsDRAWsity designer Eric Slauson, developer Aaron Salmonowicz, producer Alex Uboldi, graphic designer Bryan Weiss, and artist Daniel Clarke. The title has already received a thematic trailer, highlighting the vibrant visuals that establishes the tone for the title. This was accompanied by an official blog post from Darrington Press, which outlines Solar Gardens’ most important details.
What Is Solar Gardens?
Solar Gardens is designed for 2 to 5 players, aged 14 and up. It is estimated to last around 30 to 45 minutes, and is focused on competitive tile-drafting mechanics. Players are tasked with creating a utopia, and score points by building solar farms, water filters, windmill systems, and cultural hubs. The strategic title is accompanied by a simple rulebook and 90 tiles that represent this eco-infrastructure.
Players can outrank their opponents by focusing on one of three approaches. They may double down on sustainability, building a reusable energy system that is innovative and effective. They could dive deep into the visuals of the garden and its impact on wildlife, forging an environment that’s both pretty and full of fauna. Or, they could attempt to find a balance between the two.
Players will take turns laying their tiles, each of which represents some of the game’s key elements. They must manage their resources with skill, and only place tiles that work towards their final vision. Tiles with decorative features might bring an aesthetic edge, but they are contrasted well with practical rainwater collectors, or needed walking paths. Sessions should be varied and unpredictable, as players work on their tactical choices to keep imagining fresh gardens.
Can I Pre-Order Solar Gardens?
Darrington Press’ Solar Gardens does not currently appear to be available for pre-order. The Summer 2025 release date is the only current event to place in your calendars, but Darington Press encourages fans to sign up for their newsletter to get an early indication of when the title is available to purchase and therefore, when fans are able to try something new.
With an expected retail price of $44.99, Darrington Press have confirmed Solar Gardens will be available in the United States, Canada, Australia, UK, and EU. It will go to launch at Darrington Press Guild stores and Critical Role shops, before being rolled out to conventional tabletop sellers.