Elizabeth Hargrave, the designer behind Wingspan (the Kennerspiel des Jahres winner that has sold millions of copies worldwide), is back with something completely different. Sanibel, published by Avalon Hill, is a light set-collection game for 2-4 players inspired by shell collecting on Florida's Sanibel Island. It's now available at retail.
The premise is straightforward: walk along a beach path, pick up shells and shark teeth, then drop them into your collection bag to score points. A time-track system determines turn order (the player furthest behind always goes next), and six different shell types each score in their own way, rewarding proximity, pairs, clusters, or sheer quantity. Games wrap up in under 45 minutes, often faster with two players.
This is Hargrave's lightest release yet, a clear departure from the science-driven complexity of Wingspan and Mariposas. Early reviews are warm but measured. The A.V. Club gave it a B+, praising how quick it is to teach (about five minutes) while noting that strategic choices can feel limited. CBR was more enthusiastic, calling it "2026's most easygoing play."
The watercolour art by Dahl Taylor is consistently praised, and at $39.99, it's positioned as a family game night pick. If you've been looking for something light enough to play with non-gamers but engaging enough to hold your attention, Sanibel fits that gap well. Available now at the Hasbro Shop, Amazon, Walmart, and local game retailers.
Sources: Meeple Mountain | A.V. Club | CBR
