Cupid: Tricks & Tactics (2021) Board Game

Cupid: Tricks & Tactics is a card game released in 2021 by Riffle Shuffle & Roll. It is designed for 2 players and falls under the categories of card game and print & play. The game involves elements of hand management, memory, race, and trick-taking, making it engaging and strategic for players.

Game Components of Cupid: Tricks & Tactics

Deck: A reduced 24-card deck containing Ace through 10 in spades and hearts, plus face cards and a joker.

Scoring System: A cribbage board or a life counter app to keep track of points.

Character Cards: Face cards and the joker, each representing different characters like Cupid, Zephyr, and others.

How To Setup Cupid: Tricks & Tactics

To set up the game, players first determine the dealer by drawing the top card from the deck; the player with the lowest-ranking card deals. The deck is then shuffled, and five cards are dealt to each player one at a time. Two face-down cards form the prize trick, which is won by the player who wins the final trick of the round. The remaining cards are placed face down to form a draw pile, and the top card of the draw pile is turned up. The dealer leads the first trick with any card from their hand.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick-Taking: Players take turns playing cards to tricks.

Scoring: Points are awarded based on the cards played in each trick. For example, when a spade and heart are played, the highest card wins, and points are added. When two hearts are played, the highest number wins, but points are subtracted.

Character Card Interactions: Face cards and the joker have special effects on the tricks.

Objective: The first player to reach 121 points or more wins the game.

Player Experience

**Cupid: Tricks & Tactics** offers a strategic and engaging experience for two players. The game requires careful planning and tactical card play to maximize points from each trick. The inclusion of character cards adds a layer of complexity and excitement, as their interactions can significantly impact the outcome of each trick.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game demands thoughtful card play and strategy.

Unique Mechanics: The scoring system and character card interactions provide a fresh twist on traditional trick-taking games.

Quick Games: Matches can be relatively short, making it a great option for a quick game session.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players only, which may limit its appeal for larger groups.

Learning Curve: The special rules and character card effects can take some time to learn and master.

Personal Thoughts on Cupid: Tricks & Tactics

**Cupid: Tricks & Tactics** is ideal for fans of card games and those looking for a challenging yet fun two-player experience. It’s perfect for couples or friends who enjoy strategic gameplay and are willing to invest a bit of time into learning the unique mechanics. While it may not be suitable for large groups, it offers a compelling and engaging experience for its intended player count.

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