Cabaret (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Cabaret is a card game released in 2015 by Know Chance Games. It is designed for 2-6 players and has a runtime of about 30 minutes. The game falls under the category of trick-taking games, where players try to win tricks based on the cards they play.

Game Components of Cabaret

Cards: The game consists entirely of playing cards, each representing performers from different genres such as singers, dancers, and more. Each suit represents a different type of performer.

Mime Cards: Special cards that can be used when a player has no other valid cards to play.

Star Power: Cards are valued with white stars (1 point each) and black stars (penalty points, -1 each, found on the 11 and 12 cards).

How To Setup Cabaret

To set up the game, each player selects a suit of performers (cards) at the start. Each player is dealt a hand of cards, and mime cards are distributed to be used as needed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick Taking: Players contribute a performer to each round (or trick), but with a unique twist: no more than one type of performer can be laid down per trick.

No Following Suit: Unlike traditional trick-taking games, players cannot follow suit.

Winning the Trick: The player who provides the most valuable performer (highest valued card) wins the trick and scores points based on the star power of their card.

Objective: The game is played over three full hands, and the player with the most points at the end wins.

Player Experience

**Cabaret** offers a engaging and strategic gameplay experience that is both relaxing and thought-provoking. The game’s vintage artwork and theme, where players act as talent agents booking performers for cabaret shows, add a charming layer to the gameplay. The prohibition against following suit can give newer players an advantage over experienced trick takers, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of players.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The no-following-suit rule adds a fresh twist to traditional trick-taking games.

Strong Theming: The game’s theme and artwork are well-integrated and visually appealing.

Family Friendly: Suitable for both adults and teens.

Balanced Gameplay: Gives newer players a chance to compete against experienced players.

Cons

Card Durability: Frequent players may need to sleeve the cards to ensure they hold up to repeated use.

Learning Curve: Experienced trick takers might find the new mechanics challenging to adapt to.

Personal Thoughts on Cabaret

**Cabaret** is a great addition to any card game collection, especially for those looking for a game that combines strategy with a unique twist. It’s an excellent choice for families or groups with a mix of experienced and new players, as it offers a level playing field. The game’s thematic elements and engaging gameplay make it a delightful experience that can be enjoyed in about 30 minutes per session. If you’re looking for a game that’s both fun and challenging, **Cabaret** is definitely worth considering.

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