Elevenses for One (2014) Board Game

Elevenses for One is a solitaire card game designed by TJ Lubrano and published in in 2014. The game is set in the world of 1920’s British society, where players take on the role of a respectable lady or gentleman trying to enjoy their morning tea and pastries.

Game Components of Elevenses for One

11 cards: Each card has specific actions that the player must follow or ignore.

Tea Trolley card: The initial card that needs to be placed correctly.

Pantry area: A designated space for the cards, simulating the pantry where items are stored.

Timer mechanism: Implemented through the game’s actions, simulating a 15-minute time limit.

How To Setup Elevenses for One

To set up the game, you need to shuffle the 11 cards and lay them out in a line, with the Tea Trolley card as the starting point. The remaining 10 cards are placed in the pantry area. The game suggests setting up the cards in a specific order, but flexibility is allowed to enhance gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Actions: Each card has a specific action (e.g., flipping a card face down, swapping the position of two face-up cards).

Time Management: The player loses a minute each time a card is scored or an action is taken.

Objective: Load the Tea Trolley with all the necessary items before the 15-minute time limit (represented by 11 actions) expires.

Puzzle Element: The game requires strategic planning to ensure the correct items are placed in the Tea Trolley within the time limit.

Player Experience

Elevenses for One offers a tense and engaging puzzle experience. As Grosvenor, you must manage your time efficiently and make strategic decisions about which actions to take and when. The game’s whimsical art and thematic setting add a charming touch to the gameplay, making it both challenging and delightful.

Pros

High Replayability: The random shuffle of cards ensures each game is unique.

Quick Gameplay: The game can be completed in about 5 minutes.

Challenging yet Fun: It combines strategy and time management in a fun, puzzle-like manner.

Thematic Engagement: The tea party theme and cute artwork enhance the player’s experience.

Cons

Limited Components: The game consists of only 11 cards, which might seem simple or even sparse to some players.

Steep Learning Curve: Understanding the optimal strategy and card interactions can take several playthroughs.

Time Pressure: The tight time limit can be stressful and may not appeal to players who prefer more relaxed games.

Personal Thoughts on Elevenses for One

Elevenses for One is ideal for players who enjoy solitaire puzzle games and are looking for a quick, challenging experience. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate thematic games with a touch of whimsy and are willing to invest time in mastering the game’s mechanics. The game’s short playtime makes it an excellent addition to any collection for players seeking a quick but engaging solo experience.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.