Cabo (2010) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Cabo is a card game designed by Mandy Henning and Melissa Limes, and published by Eventide Games in in 2010. The game is known for its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay, making it a popular choice for casual gamers and families.

Game Components of Cabo

Deck of cards with values 0 to 13

Scorepad

Four player reference cards

New artwork in the second edition.

How To Setup Cabo

To set up Cabo, shuffle the deck and deal four cards face-down to each player. Players can look at two of their cards once at the beginning of the game. The remaining cards are placed in a face-down pile, and one card is flipped face-up to start the discard pile. This initial setup sets the stage for a game of strategic card management and guessing.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Hand Management: Players manage their cards to minimize total value.

Set Collection: Matching cards to discard them.

Special Powers: Peek, spy, and swap actions using higher-numbered cards.

Objective

The goal is to have the lowest total value of cards.

Use special powers to peek at your cards, spy on opponents’ cards, or swap cards with others.

Call “Cabo” when you believe you have the lowest value, ending the round but giving other players one more turn.

Score points equal to the face value of your cards unless you called “Cabo” correctly, in which case you score 0 points. A 10-point penalty applies if the “Cabo” caller does not have the lowest score.

Player Experience

Cabo is a fast-paced and fun card game suitable for players aged 8 and up. It plays well with 2-4 players and typically lasts about 45 minutes, though actual playtime can vary based on group dynamics. The game involves tactical decisions on when to draw, exchange, or call “Cabo,” making it engaging and challenging. The addition of special powers and penalties adds a layer of excitement and strategic depth.

Pros

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

Quick Games: Fast-paced gameplay keeps the game engaging and short.

Strategic Depth: Special powers and the “Cabo” call add complexity and strategy.

Affordable: With an MSRP of less than $13, it’s an affordable addition to any game collection.

Cons

Luck Element: The draw can be unpredictable, leading to high scores if you draw poorly.

Penalty Risk: Calling “Cabo” incorrectly incurs a significant penalty, which can be frustrating.

Limited Player Count: Designed for 2-4 players, which might limit larger group play.

Personal Thoughts on Cabo

Cabo is an excellent choice for families or casual gamers looking for a quick, fun, and strategic card game. Its simple setup and easy-to-learn rules make it a great introduction to card games for younger players. However, the game also offers enough complexity with its special powers and “Cabo” call mechanism to keep experienced players engaged. While it may not appeal to those seeking highly complex or long-form games, Cabo is a solid addition to any game collection for its versatility and entertainment value.

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