Description
Varuhi zmajev (original title Dragonkeepers) is a family card game in which you are witches and wizards looking after young dragons. Two piles of cards in the middle of the table form the Magic Book: the back of the left pile shows the number and the back of the right pile the colour of the dragons you may play. Since the book changes with every card taken, each turn is a new puzzle.
How to play Varuhi zmajev
On your turn you take one to three dragon cards from the display. You can then change the Magic Book by placing a card from your hand face down on one or both piles. You must play exactly as many dragons of exactly the colour the book shows, and in return you get a reward: amulet pieces, pearls, crystals or golden eggs.
At the end of your turn, the other players may also play dragons according to the same book. The game ends when the players together complete the agreed number of amulets, and the player with the most points wins.
Why you will like it
- You adjust the Magic Book with your own cards so that you can play exactly the dragons you are holding.
- You cannot place dragons just anywhere: a pile between two other colours is closed, so you choose carefully where a new colour goes.
- Whoever changes the book has to be careful not to help the others too much.
- You assemble amulet pieces into a ring, and for a completed amulet you also get a hidden pearl.
Who is Varuhi zmajev for
The game is for two to four players aged 8 and up, and a game takes about 20 minutes. The rules are moderately easy, and players like it best with three. There is no text on the cards, so it suits the whole family.
What you might not like
Because the book keeps changing, you have to rethink every turn. It may not suit those who prefer games where they can plan far ahead.
What is in the box
- dragon cards for the Magic Book, starting cards and special dragons that replace any colour
- 45 amulet pieces
- 15 pearls, 10 crystals and 9 golden eggs
- 3 diversity crests
- 6 magic chests for experienced players
- rules and a booklet with examples
