Macaron (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Macaron is a card game released in 2021 that combines elements of trick-taking and solo gameplay. Designed by Holly Chiu and Rachel Kim, this game is set in the Renaissance era and features stunning artwork by Sunrise Tornado Game Studio. With a runtime of 20-30 minutes and suitable for players aged 10 and up, Macaron offers a unique gaming experience for 1-5 players.

Game Components of Macaron

100 Card deck

5 Player boards

5 Betting boards

40 Gift boxes

5 Trump tokens

5 Allergy tokens

Scorepad

How To Setup Macaron

To set up *Macaron*, each player is dealt a hand of cards. Players then pass two cards to the player on their right. The last player selects the trump ingredient(s) for the round, while the first player chooses the allergy ingredient. Each player then has the opportunity to bet on how many tricks they will win in the round.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick Taking: Players lead tricks by playing a card, with everyone following suit and the highest numbered card winning the trick.

Trump and Allergy Ingredients: Each round has two sets of trumps and one allergy ingredient, which affects scoring.

Betting: Players bet on how many tricks they will win before the round begins.

Scoring: Points are gained by winning tricks, correctly betting on the number of tricks won, and avoiding tricks with the allergy ingredient unless a ‘2’ card is played.

Game Objective: The game ends when a player reaches 10 or 20 points, depending on the chosen game length.

Player Experience

*Macaron* offers a dynamic and strategic gameplay experience. The inclusion of two trump sets and an allergy ingredient adds a layer of complexity and tactical depth, allowing players to counter their opponents effectively. However, in two-player games, the strategy can become more predictable, reducing the impact of trumps and allergies.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game combines trick taking with betting and special ingredients, making each round unique.

Fast Paced: Games are relatively quick, whether playing to 10 or 20 points.

Versatile: Supports 1 to 5 players, making it a good option for different group sizes.

Cons

Two-Player Limitations: The game’s complexity and strategic elements are somewhat diminished in two-player games.

Betting Balance: Betting mechanics can feel less challenging and less risky in two-player games.

Personal Thoughts on Macaron

*Macaron* is ideal for fans of trick-taking games who are looking for a fresh twist on the classic mechanic. It is particularly enjoyable for larger groups where the unpredictability of the trump and allergy ingredients can significantly impact the game. However, for those who prefer games with consistent depth across all player counts, *Macaron* might fall short in two-player scenarios. Despite this, it remains a fun and challenging game that encourages strategic thinking and clever betting.

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