Erosion Game

The erosion game was developed as a learning activity by geomorphologist John Douglass in 2009. It requires a basic understanding of introductory physical geology concepts, in particular: weathering, erosion, rock properties, and mountain building in order to be able to play. As a card game, it does a great job of replicating some of the “randomness of nature” that will yield the different mountains/hillslopes that you draw from the deck. You can also think of the weathering card draws as representing the “randomness” of the climate and geography that weathers particular mountains (as these environments are frequently quite different from the environments the mountains formed in originally). The strategy of game play is where the similarities between the game as a model really differs from the real world. As you play, you must be open about your strategy, that is, as we use this game and each move you make as an open discussion and opportunity to review and learn together. You are still invited to play to win if you so choose! John graciously shared the card files with me to continue using and provide to others. I have set up this page for you to purchase the cards at no profit to myself if you wish to use them. The accompanying files (game set up and rules) are availble for download upon purchase.