Haggis (2010) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Haggis is a card game designed by Sean Ross and published by Indie Boards & Cards in in 2010. The game is inspired by traditional Scottish card games and incorporates elements of betting and bluffing, hand management, and ladder climbing mechanics. With a runtime of 45 minutes and suitable for players aged 13 and above, Haggis offers a strategic and engaging gameplay experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Haggis

A custom deck with five suits, each containing cards 2-10, and three copies of each face card (Jack, Queen, King), but no aces.

Each player starts with three face cards (Jack, Queen, King) placed face-up in front of them.

How To Setup Haggis

To set up Haggis, begin by removing a Jack, a Queen, and a King from the deck for a two-player game, along with one complete suit. Each player is then dealt 14 cards and receives the three face cards face-up. The remaining cards form the “Haggis” and are set aside until scoring. For a three-player game, the setup is similar but without removing a suit.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Shedding and Trick-Taking: Players aim to get rid of their cards first.

Sets and Sequences: Players can play sets (multiple cards of the same rank) or sequences (runs of the same suit with consecutive ranks).

Bombs: Special combinations that can override any set or sequence, ranked from weakest to strongest.

Face Cards as Wilds: Jacks, Queens, and Kings can be used as wild cards or played as their actual rank.

Game Objective

The goal is to be the first player to empty their hand of all cards to win the round.

Points are scored based on the cards captured and the number of cards left in opponents’ hands.

Additional points can be gained through successful betting on going out first.

Player Experience

Haggis offers a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience, especially for fans of trick-taking and climbing games. Players must balance the need to shed their cards quickly with the strategic use of face cards and bombs. The game is praised for its ability to engage players of all ages and experience levels, creating a lively atmosphere with its explosive interactions and betting mechanics.

Pros

Trick-Taking Fun for Fewer Players: Designed for 2-3 players, making it unique in the genre.

Strategic Depth: Incorporates complex strategies with sets, sequences, and bombs.

Engaging Gameplay: Creates a lively atmosphere with its betting and bombing mechanics.

High Replayability: Offers varied gameplay due to the random distribution of cards and strategic decisions.

Cons

Initial Learning Curve: Some players may find the rules slightly complex to understand at first.

Dependence on Card Draw: Bad hands can occasionally dampen the mood.

Not Ideal for All: May not appeal to those who do not enjoy trick-taking games.

Personal Thoughts on Haggis

Haggis is ideal for those who love trick-taking games but often find themselves with fewer players. It fills a niche market perfectly, offering a game that is both familiar and strategically challenging. While it may not convert non-trick-taking game enthusiasts, it is a must-have for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a game to play with two or three players, Haggis is an excellent choice, though for strictly two-player games, *Fox in the Forest* might be a better option.

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.