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Ghosts of Christmas (2019) Board Game

ByMichail

Ghosts of Christmas is a card game released in 2019 by BoardGameTables.com. It is designed by Taiki Shinzawa and features artwork by Misaho Sugawara and Maria Surducan. The game is suitable for 3-4 players, with a runtime of approximately 40 minutes. It falls under the card game category and utilizes predictive bidding and trick-taking mechanics.

Game Components of Ghosts of Christmas

  • Cards:** A deck of 48 cards divided into four suits (Candles, Musical Notes, Hearts, and Scales).
  • Dials:** Used to track the suit for each era (Past, Present, and Future).
  • Ghost Board Pieces:** For each player to track their plays in different eras.
  • Wreath Tokens:** Used for scoring, placed on door tokens.
  • Door Tokens:** Including purple and red doors for bidding and scoring.
  • Beyond Dial and Piece:** Optional for the Beyond variant, adding a fourth era.
  • Start Player Token:** A wooden top hat to indicate the start player.

    How To Setup Ghosts of Christmas

    To set up the game, shuffle the card deck and remove the 1, 2, and 3 of each suit if playing with three players. Each player receives a player color token, a set of Ghost Board Pieces for each era, and the necessary dials. If not using the Beyond or Tiny Tim variants, adjust the components accordingly. Place the scoreboard nearby and designate the start player using the wooden top hat. Ensure all door tokens and wreaths are within reach.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Trick Taking:** Players play cards to win tricks in the Past, Present, and Future eras.
  • Time Manipulation:** The suit of the first card played in an era sets the lead suit for that era, and winning a trick in one era can change the lead suit for the next era.
  • Bidding:** Players can bid on the number of tricks they think they will win, using purple and red door tokens for exact and flexible bids.
  • Scoring:** Points are awarded based on the number of tricks won and whether the bid was accurate. Wreaths are used to cover door tokens to score points.
  • Variants:** Includes a Tiny Tim variant for simpler gameplay and a Beyond variant that adds a fourth era.

    Player Experience

    **Ghosts of Christmas** offers a challenging and strategic experience, requiring players to think ahead and manipulate the timeline to their advantage. The game demands careful planning and adaptability, as the outcome of each trick can significantly impact future rounds. The addition of bidding mechanics adds an extra layer of complexity and strategy, making it appealing to experienced players. The game’s theme and components, such as the wooden wreaths and top hat, add a charming and festive touch.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Multiple ways to approach each round, requiring careful planning and adaptability.
  • Challenging but Engaging:** Suitable for players who enjoy complex trick-taking games.
  • Thematic Integration:** Well-integrated theme from *A Christmas Carol*, enhancing the gameplay experience.
  • Variants for Different Preferences:** Options for simpler or more complex gameplay with the Tiny Tim and Beyond variants.

    Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve:** Can be overwhelming for new players due to the complex mechanics and bidding system.
  • High Stress Level:** The game can be nerve-racking, especially with the bidding mechanics.

    Personal Thoughts on Ghosts of Christmas

    **Ghosts of Christmas** is ideal for fans of trick-taking games and those who enjoy strategic, complex gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who are looking for a game that challenges them and requires thoughtful planning. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to trick-taking games, the availability of different variants makes it versatile enough to cater to a range of player preferences. The game’s festive theme and charming components make it a unique addition to any board game collection.

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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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