[WSIG] Looking for compact game

Hi everyone! I’m relatively new to the world of board games and I’m looking for some advice.

​I’m looking for new game recommendations, specifically for solo play (though I’d love it if they could scale up to more players). I’m really interested in compact game design—titles that offer a deep, meaty experience but in a very small footprint.

​What I’m looking for:

​Format: Small-box or pocket-sized games, primarily card-based (with or without tokens/dice). I value games that have intuitive rules but offer a lot of tactical depth.

​Core Mechanics: I’m looking for a specific gameplay loop: Gathering/Research (searching for resources to improve or build something), Progression (meaningful character evolution or deckbuilding during the session), and Hunting (tracking down and fighting monsters or bosses).

​The Experience: I want the depth of a large-scale adventure or survival game—where you start with almost nothing and build your way up—but on a micro scale.

​Table Presence: I prioritize games with a small footprint (similar in size to Gloomhaven: Buttons & Bugs) that can be played on small surfaces, like a tray table or a small desk.

Thanks in advance for the help!