Take 5 (1994) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Take 5, also known as 6 Nimmt!, is a classic card game designed by Wolfgang Kramer and first published in 1994 by AMIGO. The game has gained popularity for its simple rules and strategic gameplay, making it a favorite among casual gamers and experienced players alike.

Game Components of Take 5

104 cards numbered 1 to 104, each with at least one small bullhead

Each card may have multiple bullheads

Optionally, Row Number cards (3, 4, and 5) for variant rules

How To Setup Take 5

To set up the game, deal 10 cards to each player. Place four cards face up on the table to form the start of four rows. These rows will serve as the foundation for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Placement: Players choose a card from their hand and place it face down in front of them.

Revealing Cards: When all players are ready, the cards are revealed and placed in ascending numerical order at the ends of the rows.

Taking Rows: If a player’s card is lower than all the end cards, they must take one of the rows. The player chooses which row to take and adds these cards to their Bull Pile.

Scoring: Each bullhead on the cards in the Bull Pile scores 1 point.

Game End: The game ends after the round in which at least one player’s score reaches 66 points. The player with the lowest score wins.

Player Experience

Take 5 is a game that balances simplicity with strategic depth. Although it may seem luck-based at first, repeated plays reveal a layer of strategy. Players need to pay close attention to the cards that have been played and adjust their strategy accordingly. The game is known for its quick rounds, lasting only a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick game or as a warm-up before a longer game. The randomness of the card distribution ensures high replayability.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful card selection and planning.

High Replayability: Different strategies and random card distribution keep the game fresh.

Fast Rounds: Ideal for quick games or as a warm-up.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players of all ages.

Cons

Luck Factor: Random card distribution can lead to unfair outcomes.

Limited Interaction: Players are mainly focused on their own hands and avoiding bullheads.

Lack of Theme: No strong theme or narrative, which may appeal less to some players.

Limited Complexity: May not satisfy players looking for a more challenging game.

Personal Thoughts on Take 5

Take 5 is an excellent choice for families or groups of friends looking for a quick, fun, and strategically engaging game. It’s ideal for those who enjoy simple yet challenging games and are comfortable with a mix of luck and strategy. However, players seeking a game with deep complexity, strong themes, or high player interaction might find Take 5 a bit lacking. Nonetheless, its awards and enduring popularity attest to its enduring appeal as a classic card game.

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