Robinson Crusoe

You are shipwrecked on a cursed island and have to survive the elements and wild animals. You explore, gather resources, and build shelter while dealing with random events. It is famously difficult to win. It requires a bit of focus, but the payoff is worth it once the mechanics click for everyone. You might struggle a bit during your first session, but the second time through feels very smooth. It has a good rhythm to it once everyone understands the phases of a turn. I appreciate that it does not drag on for hours like some other titles in this genre. It is a solid choice when your group wants a satisfying experience that wraps up before midnight.