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Poison (2005) Board Game

ByMichail

Poison is a card game designed by Reiner Knizia and published by Playroom Entertainment in in 2005. The game is known for its simple rules and strategic gameplay, making it a popular choice for game nights and gatherings with friends and family.

Game Components of Poison

  • A deck of cards numbered 1-15
  • Poison tokens
  • Rules booklet

    • How To Setup Poison

  • Shuffle the deck of cards and deal each player a hand of cards.
  • Place the poison tokens in the center of the table within reach of all players.
  • Determine the start player and begin the game.

    • Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    In Poison, players take turns playing cards from their hand to a pile in the center of the table. The goal is to avoid taking the pile over a certain limit, or risk collecting poison tokens. The player with the fewest poison tokens at the end of the game wins.

    Player Experience

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    Pros:

  • Easy to learn and quick to play
  • Strategic depth with simple rules
  • Suitable for a wide range of ages

    • #

    Cons:

  • Limited replay value
  • Luck can play a significant role in the outcome

    • Personal Thoughts on Poison

    Poison is a well-designed card game that offers a good balance of strategy and luck. While it may not have the same longevity as some other games, it is a fun and engaging option for casual gaming sessions. The build quality is solid, and the artwork is appealing.

    In terms of pricing and availability, Poison is generally affordable and can be found both used and new online. Alternatives to Poison include games like Sushi Go! and Love Letter, which offer similar gameplay experiences.

    Overall, Poison is worth considering for those looking for a light and quick card game to add to their collection. It is suitable for players of all skill levels and ages, making it a versatile option for game nights. However, those seeking more complex or long-lasting gameplay experiences may find other options more appealing.

    Game Components of Poison

  • Cards:** Three suits with values from 1 to 7, and a fourth “joker” suit with all cards valued at 4
  • Player hands:** Each player receives a hand of cards at the start of each round

    How To Setup Poison

    To set up Poison, each player is dealt a hand of cards. The game does not require a complex board or additional components beyond the cards. Players simply need their hands and the central playing area where cards will be discarded.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Card Play:** Players discard one card from their hand onto a pile of the corresponding color. Jokers can be played on any pile.
  • Pile Sum:** The sum of all cards in a pile is calculated after each discard. If the sum exceeds 13, the player who discarded the last card must take all the cards in that pile, leaving only their card behind.
  • Round End:** The round ends when all cards have been played. Players compare their cards in each suit.
  • Scoring:** Players with the most cards in a suit can discard those cards. Others score 1 penalty point per card in that suit. Jokers are worth 2 penalty points.
  • Game Objective:** The player with the fewest penalty points after each player has started a round wins.

    Player Experience

    In Poison, players must balance the risk of taking cards that could result in high scores against the need to get rid of high-value cards. The game is simple to learn but requires strategic thinking to avoid taking the wrong cards. The inclusion of jokers adds an element of unpredictability, as they can be played on any pile, potentially forcing another player to take a large number of cards.

    Pros

  • Easy to Learn:** The rules are straightforward, making it accessible to new players.
  • Strategic Depth:** Despite its simplicity, Poison requires careful planning to win.
  • Quick Games:** Rounds are relatively short, allowing for multiple games in a single session.
  • Social Interaction:** Players must pay close attention to each other’s moves to make strategic decisions.

    Cons

  • Luck Factor:** The random distribution of cards can significantly affect the outcome.
  • Limited Complexity:** Some players might find the game too simple or repetitive.
  • Dependence on Other Players:** The game’s outcome heavily depends on the actions of other players.

    Personal Thoughts on Poison

    Poison is a great game for those who enjoy light-hearted, strategic card games. It is ideal for families or casual game nights because it is easy to learn and plays quickly. However, players seeking more complex or thematic experiences might find Poison too simplistic. For fans of Reiner Knizia’s design style, which often emphasizes simple yet strategic gameplay, Poison is a delightful addition to any game collection.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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