Phantom Ink (2022) Board Game

Phantom Ink is a party game that was released in 2022 by Resonym. Designed by Mary Flanagan and Max Seidman, this game is all about deduction and communication limits, making it a unique addition to the party game genre. With a playtime of 10-15 minutes and suitable for players aged 13 and above, Phantom Ink challenges players to solve puzzles and uncover hidden words through targeted clues.

Game Components of Phantom Ink

Game board

8 dry erase markers

100 word cards

50 blackout cards

4 clue cards

4 player aids

Rulebook

How To Setup Phantom Ink

Place the game board in the center of the playing area.

Shuffle the word cards and place them face down.

Each player takes a dry erase marker and a player aid.

Determine teams based on the number of players.

Choose a starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Phantom Ink, players work in teams to uncover hidden words on the board using targeted clues and deduction. The game revolves around limited communication, as players can only give clues based on specific criteria. The objective is to uncover as many words as possible within the given time frame.

Player Experience

Pros:

Unique gameplay mechanics that challenge deduction skills

Quick and engaging gameplay that keeps players on their toes

Team-based gameplay fosters collaboration and communication among players

Cons:

Limited replay value once players become familiar with the word cards

Some players may find the communication limits too restrictive

Personal Thoughts on Phantom Ink

Phantom Ink offers a refreshing twist on the traditional party game, incorporating elements of deduction and targeted clues that make for an exciting gameplay experience. The build quality of the game components is solid, and the artwork by Spring Yu adds to the overall aesthetic appeal. While the game may not have as much replay value as some other party games, it is still worth a try for those looking for a unique and challenging gaming experience. Players who enjoy puzzle-solving and word games will likely find Phantom Ink to be a good fit for their gaming collection. However, those who prefer more open-ended or free-form party games may want to skip this one.

In terms of pricing and availability, Phantom Ink can be found at various retailers both new and used. For its category and gameplay experience, the price point is reasonable and offers good value for the entertainment it provides. Alternatives to Phantom Ink include games like Codenames and Decrypto, which offer similar deduction and word-based gameplay mechanics. Overall, Phantom Ink is a game that is worth your time if you enjoy challenging puzzles and collaborative gameplay experiences.

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