Description
One box, 98 number cards and one question: can you beat the game? In The Game you don't play against each other but all together against the deck. There are four rows on the table: two go up from 1, two go down from 100. Think every card through carefully, because each big jump closes off room for the cards that come later. And while doing so, you may not tell your fellow players which numbers you hold in your hand.
How to play The Game
Each player gets six cards in hand, seven in a two-player game and eight when playing solo. On your turn, play at least two cards onto any piles: an ascending pile needs a higher number than the top card, a descending pile a lower one. Then refill your hand from the draw pile. One exception gets you out of a tight spot: you may play a card in the opposite direction if it differs from the top card by exactly 10.
Once the draw pile runs out, one card per turn is enough. The game ends when someone cannot play the required number of cards. If you play all 98, you have beaten the game, and fewer than ten cards left over is already an excellent result.
Why you'll like it
- You may not say any numbers, but you can say “don't play on the last pile” or “don't make a big jump here”. These very hints are the heart of the game.
- You can use the difference-of-10 trick several times in the same turn to push a pile back and win yourself some room.
- Every turn is a small decision: play only the required two cards, or more if the numbers follow on nicely.
- Once you beat the game, make it harder: experienced players must play three cards per turn, and you can also hold one card fewer in your hand.
Who is The Game for
The Game is a simple card game for one to five players aged 8 and up, and a game takes about 20 minutes. Players like it best with three, and the rules also include a solo variant. There is no text on the components, and the rules fit on two pages. It suits families and groups who enjoy cooperative games and short sessions.
What you might not like
You draw cards at random, so it can happen that you get stuck despite good cooperation. The game may not be the best fit for those who prefer competitive games in which everyone plays for themselves.
What's in the box
- 98 number cards (from 2 to 99)
- 4 row cards (two ascending from 1, two descending from 100)
- rules
