Quick answer

The Cartographers Collector's Edition bundles the Heroes expansion with Map Packs 1-3, a Skills mini-expansion, colored pencils, and a storage tray. It's the most content-rich version of the game, but if you already own the base game or prefer digital scoring, a la carte packs may be a better fit.

What makes this a collector's edition?

Unlike a standard game expansion, this edition packs all of the Heroes gameplay content plus three map packs and a Skills mini-expansion into one box. It also includes 20 colored pencils and a plastic tray to organize your maps inside the box. The larger box has plenty of empty space to store the original Cartographers game plus all future content, which is a practical bonus if you plan to keep everything together.

Who benefits from the extra components?

The colored pencils and tray are nice additions for groups that play in person and want a tidy setup. If you mostly play solo or use the digital app for scoring, these physical extras add less value. The box's extra storage space is helpful only if you own or plan to buy the base Cartographers game separately.

How to decide if this bundle is right for you

  • You already own the base Cartographers game: This edition adds Heroes, three map packs, and Skills Mini-Expansion 2. If you only want one specific map pack, buying it separately costs less. But if you want variety and the storage box, the bundle is a better value. Check which map packs you already own before buying.
  • You are new to Cartographers: This edition does not include the base game. You still need the original Cartographers box to play. The bundle is a content expansion, not a standalone game. Buy the base game first, then consider this bundle for extra maps and variants.
  • You prefer digital scoring or solo play: The colored pencils and tray are less useful if you score via app or play solo. The map packs and Heroes rules still add variety, but you may prefer buying just the digital content or a single map pack.

What's inside the box

  • Cartographers: Collector's Edition (Heroes + Map Packs 1-3): Includes all gameplay content from Cartographers Heroes plus Map Packs 1-3 (Nebblis, Affril, Undercity) and Skills Mini-Expansion 2. You get the Heroes variant rules, three additional map sheets, and a new skill system in one purchase, which saves you from buying each pack individually.

    Cartographers: Collector's Edition (Heroes + Map Packs 1-3)

    Cartographers: Collector's Edition (Heroes + Map Packs 1-3)

  • Cartographers: Collector's Edition (Heroes + Map Packs 1-3): Includes 20 colored pencils and a plastic tray to organize your maps inside the box. These components make table setup faster and keep your map sheets neat, especially helpful for groups that play multiple rounds in a session.

Who should buy this?

Best for

  • Cartographers fans who want the most content in one box
  • Groups that play in person and appreciate organized components

Not for

  • New players who don't yet own the base Cartographers game
  • Players who only want one specific map pack and don't need the extras