Similar Gameplay and Mechanics:
* Race for the Galaxy: This is a card drafting game with a lot of strategy and combination building, similar to Small World. It offers a quicker game and focuses on building powerful engines with your cards.
* 7 Wonders: A card drafting and civilization building game with a focus on deck building. It features different civilizations with unique abilities, similar to the races in Small World.
* Concordia: A worker placement game where players build their own empires on the island of Sicily. It has a similar feeling of strategic resource management and expansion as Small World.
* Roll for the Galaxy: A streamlined version of Race for the Galaxy, with a focus on dice rolling and building a powerful galactic engine. It's faster paced and more accessible than its more complex sibling.
* Splendor: A quick card drafting game with an emphasis on collecting gems and building engine-building with your gems. It has a similar feel of resource management and engine building as Small World.
Similar Theme or Genre:
* Ticket to Ride: A classic train-themed game focused on connecting cities with your train routes. It's a strategic game with a focus on resource management and route planning.
* Agricola: A worker placement game where players build their own farms and raise animals. It's a more complex and simulation-heavy game than Small World, but still offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
* Puerto Rico: A classic worker placement game with a strong emphasis on resource management and building an engine. It's a more complex and nuanced game than Small World, but offers a rich and rewarding experience.
* Terraforming Mars: A science fiction game where players terraform Mars and compete to build the best Martian city. It has a similar feel of strategic resource management and engine building as Small World.
Ultimately, the best game for you depends on your preferences. Consider:
* Complexity: Are you looking for a quick and simple game, or a more complex and strategic game?
* Player Count: How many players will you be playing with? Some games are better suited for certain player counts.
* Theme: Do you prefer a fantasy setting like Small World, or something else?
I encourage you to explore different games and find one that you enjoy!