Gargon (2001) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Gargon is a fantasy card game designed by Oliver Freudenreich and published in 2001 by AMIGO and Rio Grande Games. The game is designed for 3-5 players, with a runtime of approximately 45 minutes. Players take on the roles of powerful wizards battling each other with magical creatures and spells.

Game Components of Gargon

One deck of 102 Gargon cards in 6 suits, each representing a fantasy creature with values 0 to 15

18 bonus cards

One rulebook

The cards feature amulet symbols, with lower value cards holding more amulets and higher value cards having none.

How To Setup Gargon

To set up Gargon, each player is dealt 10 cards. The remaining cards are split into two equal draw piles placed face down in the center of the playing area, with their backs visible to show the color of the suits. Players must also hold their cards so that the backs are visible to all.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Distribution: Players play up to three cards face down, each from different suits, or pass. Subsequent players must follow the same distribution of suits or pass.

Resolving Tricks: The leading player chooses a color, and players reveal their highest card in that color. The highest card wins, and the winner keeps it; others discard.

Scoring: The game ends when one draw pile is exhausted. Players score points for the cards they have won, with bonus cards awarded for winning the most cards in each suit. Amulets on the cards also contribute to the final score.

Player Experience

Gargon offers a quirky and engaging experience, particularly for those interested in unusual card games. The game’s mechanics, such as the visible card backs and the distribution rules, add a unique twist to traditional trick-taking games. However, the game may not appeal to everyone due to its niche mechanics and potential for limited replayability.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The game introduces interesting and unconventional rules that differentiate it from other card games.

Strategic Depth: Players need to strategize about which cards to play and when to pass, adding a layer of complexity.

Quirky Theme: The fantasy theme and the use of amulets add to the game’s charm.

Cons

Limited Replayability: Some players may find the game less engaging after multiple plays.

Usability Issues: The close colors of the purple and red suits can be hard to distinguish in dim light.

Learning Curve: While the game is easy to learn, its unique mechanics might take some time to fully grasp.

Personal Thoughts on Gargon

Gargon is ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with different and unconventional card games. It’s a great fit for players looking to add some variety to their gaming sessions and appreciate strategic depth in a compact, 45-minute game. However, it may not be the best choice for players seeking games with high replayability or those who prefer more traditional card game mechanics. If you’re a fan of Rüdiger Dorn or simply looking for something unique to spice up your game nights, Gargon is definitely worth checking out.

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