Tome: The Light Edition (2021) Board Game

Tome: The Light Edition is a card game designed by Lauren Yu and published in in 2021. It falls under the category of fantasy card games and features player elimination, team-based gameplay, and trick-taking mechanics. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, with a recommended age of 14 and above.

Game Components of Tome: The Light Edition

24 basic spells (six in each of four suits)

Six special cards

Four reference cards

Eight scorecards (two for each player)

Four health counters

Rulebook

Optional: *The Gold Codex* expansion with 18 additional cards and a reference card.

How To Setup Tome: The Light Edition

To set up the game, each player is dealt a hand of six cards. The remaining cards form the Element Deck, with the top card revealed as the Title Card, which sets the trump suit for that hand. In the standard mode, four players are split into two teams, with teammates sitting across from each other. For Survival Mode, three or four players compete individually.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick-Taking Mechanics: Players take turns playing cards to win tricks, with each card having unique effects and abilities.

Teams and Survival Modes: Standard mode features teams of two, while Survival Mode pits players against each other.

Card Effects: Cards can modify gameplay, such as increasing value, changing elements, or silencing other cards.

Health System in Survival Mode: Players lose health for playing the weakest card in a trick; the last player standing earns points.

Objective: In team mode, teams compete for points by winning tricks. In Survival Mode, the goal is to be the last player standing and accumulate points.

Player Experience

*Tome: The Light Edition* offers a dynamic and engaging experience with its blend of traditional trick-taking and magical card effects. The game is easy to pick up but challenging to master, requiring strategic thinking and teamwork. It features a “take-that” gameplay style that is satisfying without being overly aggressive. The game also includes variants like Survival Mode and Duel Mode, adding versatility to the gameplay experience.

Pros

Dynamic Gameplay: Unique card effects and abilities add a fresh twist to traditional trick-taking.

Versatile Modes: Includes team mode, Survival Mode, and Duel Mode for two players.

High Replayability: Modular design and varied card effects ensure each game is different.

Portable and Affordable: Compact design and affordable price point make it an excellent choice for card game enthusiasts.

Cons

Rulebook Clarity: The rulebook can be somewhat confusing and requires reference to additional materials for clarity.

Limited Player Count for Some Modes: Not recommended for three players if other player counts are available.

Personal Thoughts on Tome: The Light Edition

*Tome: The Light Edition* is ideal for hobby card game fans, particularly those who enjoy trick-taking games with a strategic twist. It’s a great fit for players who appreciate games like Euchre or Bridge but are looking for something with more dynamic and magical elements. The game’s modular design and various play modes make it highly replayable and adaptable to different player preferences. If you enjoy puzzle-like card games where strategy and teamwork are key, *Tome: The Light Edition* is definitely worth checking out.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.