Cacti (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Cacti is a card game released in 2020, designed by Liz Lahner and published by Small Box Games. It is a two-player game that falls under the category of card games, featuring mechanics such as open drafting, push your luck, and set collection. The game has a runtime of 15-20 minutes and is suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Game Components of Cacti

Deck: A standard 54-card deckbox.

Cards: 49 Cacti cards, each featuring one of four types of cacti, and 5 sale cards with two types of cacti on each.

Rules: A double-sided sheet of rules and two Turn Reference cards.

How To Setup Cacti

To set up **Cacti**, players start by placing five Cacti cards between them. Each card displays one type of cactus. The remaining cards are shuffled and placed within reach of both players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Set-collection, Card Game.

Mechanics: Card drafting, Set collection.

Objective: Collect sets of cacti to score points.

Player Actions:

Grow Action: Take all cacti of a single type from the middle.

Sell Action: Use sale cards to exchange cacti and build sets.

Designer: Not specified in available sources.

Player Experience

**Cacti** offers a clean and straightforward gameplay experience, making it accessible to players of various skill levels. The game revolves around strategic card drafting and set collection, encouraging players to think ahead and plan their moves carefully. The presence of sale cards adds a layer of complexity, allowing for tactical exchanges and set building.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that can be taught in minutes.

Quick Gameplay: Games are typically short, lasting around 10-15 minutes.

Strategic Depth: Despite simplicity, the game requires strategic thinking.

Portable: Comes in a compact 54-card deckbox.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for only two players.

Replayability: May become repetitive after multiple plays.

Personal Thoughts on Cacti

**Cacti** is ideal for those looking for a light, yet engaging card game that can be played in a short amount of time. It’s perfect for couples or friends who enjoy set-collection games and are seeking a casual, yet strategic experience. While it may not offer the complexity or replayability of larger games, **Cacti** excels in its simplicity and ease of play, making it a great addition to any board game collection.

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