Tinker Tailor (2015) Board Game

Tinker Tailor is a card game designed by Lindsey Harrison and Andree Schneider, released in in 2015. The game is set in a whimsical world where players take on the role of tailors competing to create the most fashionable outfits. With a runtime of 45-60 minutes, Tinker Tailor is suitable for 2-6 players aged 8 and up.

Game Components of Tinker Tailor

Role cards featuring 17 different roles

Money deck with varying denominations

Goods cards including bread, fish, cloth, wine, and gems

Market cards for setup

Rhyme card for role activation

How To Setup Tinker Tailor

To set up the game, two rows of cards are dealt out: one from the money deck and one from the goods deck, which forms “The Market.” The start player then deals role cards to each player plus two extra, allowing each player to draft one role card. This process continues until all players have selected their roles.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Role Selection: Players draft role cards, each with unique actions.

Set Collection: Players collect sets of goods cards to score points.

Drafting: Role cards are drafted in a circular manner.

Action Resolution: Players perform actions based on their selected roles when the rhyme is read out.

Game Objective

The objective is to collect and amass sets of goods cards to score the most points. Points are awarded based on the number and type of goods collected, with additional points for completing a set of all five goods types. Any remaining cash is also valued at half its worth.

Player Experience

Tinker Tailor offers a blend of familiar mechanisms with a unique twist, making it engaging for both casual and experienced players. The game balances simplicity with emergent tactics and strategies, allowing players to employ different synergies based on the roles they choose. The roles introduce a layer of interactiveness and strategic depth, as players must consider the potential actions of other players when selecting their roles.

Pros

Unique Blend of Mechanics: Combines role selection, drafting, and set collection in an innovative way.

Interactive Roles: Roles introduce strategic depth and player interaction.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Quick Playtime: Games last between 45-60 minutes.

Light yet Engaging: Perfect as a ‘filler’ game or for casual gaming sessions.

Cons

Role Dependence: Success can be heavily dependent on the roles available and selected.

Luck Element: Drafting roles introduces an element of luck.

Limited Complexity: May not appeal to players seeking highly complex gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Tinker Tailor

Tinker Tailor is an excellent addition to any card game collection, particularly for those who enjoy games like Dominion, Coup, and Citadels. It is ideal for families and casual gamers looking for a game that is easy to learn but still offers strategic depth. The unique mechanics and interactive roles make it a fun and engaging experience, but it may not be the best fit for players seeking highly complex or lengthy games.

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