As explorers bring back more and more detailed knowledge about other parts of the world from their travels, cartographers use that knowledge to create intricate maps of the world. As the new trade gains influence in science and at royal courts, new methods and tools are invented — modern cartography is born!
In Mapping the World, you are a cartographer striving to become the best-known master of your trade by creating a map of the world. You'll send out explorers to discover new territories, develop new tools, and manage your riches and influence at the royal court. Will you become the most prolific cartographer and win the game, or will one of your colleagues take the prize?
On your turn, either pick up cards from a common market (which will also change the rest of that market for the following players), or play cards from your hand to perform various actions, like moving your explorer's ship or upgrading your equipment. The central action consists of mapping different parts of the globe, which will net you victory points as well as fulfill different objectives that change from one game to another. After a player has fulfilled a certain number of objectives, the game ends and the player with the most points wins.
-description from the publisher