Looking at the extensive art, unique style, some sideways art with the cards flipped horizontally, and images that take up the entire card, it’s a gorgeous addition to the entire game.
I was impressed with the amount at first, as these were fan art creations that included alt text at the bottom of the card describing something about the artist or something interesting. Also, it was amazing to see a variety of art media.
Styles include pencil drawing, painting, woodwork, crochet, children’s art, watercolor and other advanced professional art. I’m really impressed with the artwork and love seeing it while playing the game.
That being said, this set of alternative art cards seems to be in an odd position. Players who own all the expansions can get this and swap in alternative artwork (which is very tedious), but then you’re left with a bunch of useless cards, and the new cards add nothing to the actual gameplay.
It also doesn’t come with its own baseline Wingspan gaming component, so it can’t be purchased separately. Also, since it’s cards from all sets, people can get random cards from other sets that they don’t actually own yet.
The end result of it all is trying to find a real reason to have it because it feels like an aesthetic add-on that’s more complicated and confusing than it needs to be. Too much for casual players and not enough for ardent fans. However, the product itself is great and very pretty.
I just think this appeals to a certain subset of Wingspan fans who want to shake things up on a very specific level.
