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Cat Lady (2017) Board Game

ByMichail

Cat Lady is a card game released in 2017 by designer Josh Wood and published by Alderac Entertainment Group. The game is designed for 2-4 players and has a runtime of 15-30 minutes. Cat Lady falls under the categories of Animals, Card Game, and Humor, with gameplay focusing on open drafting and set collection mechanics.

Game Components of Cat Lady

  • Game cards: 102 cards including cat cards, food cards, toys, costumes, catnip, and more.
  • Stray cat cards: 13 cards that can be traded for lucrative rewards.
  • Victory point tokens: Used to track players’ scores.
  • Cat token: Used to block rows or columns of cards.
  • Food cubes: Represent food for the cats.
  • Rulebook**[3.).

    How To Setup Cat Lady

    To set up the game, nine cards from the main deck are laid out in a 3×3 grid. The number of cards used depends on the number of players, with some cards only included in 3 or 4 player games. The rest of the cards form a draw pile. Stray Cat cards are shuffled, and the top three are turned face up next to the play area. A cat token is placed next to one of the rows or columns in the grid, chosen by the player sitting next to the start player.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Card Drafting: Players draft cards by selecting either a row or column of cards from the 3×3 grid.
  • Set Collection: Players collect cats, food, toys, costumes, and catnip.
  • Guard Cat Mechanic: The cat token prevents the next player from taking the same set of cards.
  • Spray Bottle Cards: Can be used to move the guard cat and access blocked rows or columns.
  • Feeding Cats: Players must have enough food for their cats; otherwise, they incur penalties.
  • Scoring: Points are scored from victory point tokens, cards, and bonuses for collecting certain items like costumes and catnip. The player with the most points wins.

    Player Experience

    **Cat Lady** offers a simple yet engaging experience, making it easy for non-gamers to learn and enjoy. The game is highly interactive, with players trying to block each other from desirable cards while ensuring they get the cards they need. The gameplay is snappy and relaxed, allowing players to make quick decisions without too much complexity. The charming artwork and cute cat names add to the game’s appeal, making it a great choice for family gatherings or as a filler game.

    Pros

  • Easy to Learn: Simple rules and quick setup make it accessible to all ages.
  • Interactive: Players actively try to block each other while pursuing their own goals.
  • Cute Artwork: The comic-style drawings and clever cat names enhance the game’s charm.
  • Good Introduction to Card Drafting: Teaches the basics of card drafting and set collection.
  • Quick Play Time: Games typically last 15-30 minutes.

    Cons

  • Limited Complexity: May not appeal to players seeking more complex games.
  • Card Quality: The cards are not of the highest quality.
  • Theme Limitations: Not suitable for those who hate cats.
  • Limited Use of All Cards at Two Players: Certain cards are omitted in two-player games, which might reduce the game’s full potential.

    Personal Thoughts on Cat Lady

    **Cat Lady** is an excellent choice for those looking for a light, fun, and quick game. It is perfect for introducing new players to card drafting and set collection mechanics. The game’s simplicity and charm make it a great addition to family game nights or as a filler between more complex games. While it may not be the best fit for seasoned gamers seeking a challenge, it is a nearly purrfect choice for casual gamers and cat lovers alike.

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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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