Phase 10 Master (2008) Board Game

Phase 10 Master is a variation of the popular card game Phase 10, which was created by Kenneth Johnson in in 2008. The game was later published by Mattel in 1987. Phase 10 Master was released in 2008 by Ravensburger, adding a new twist to the original game.

Game Components of Phase 10 Master

Card Deck: Consists of 108 cards, including 96 numbered cards (two of each value from 1 to 12 in four colors), 8 Wild cards, and 4 Skip cards.

Phase Cards: Each player has a set of phase cards to track their progress.

Phase Display Cards: To display the current phase each player is on.

Collectible Tin: Many editions come in a collectible metal tin box.

How To Setup Phase 10 Master

To set up the game, shuffle the card deck and deal 7 cards to each player. Each player selects a phase card from their set to attempt to complete in the first round. The remaining cards are placed face down in a draw pile, and the top card is turned over to start the discard pile.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Be the first player to complete all 10 phases in the specified order.

Phases: Each phase requires a specific combination of cards, such as sets, runs, or cards of one color. Examples include 2 sets of 3, 1 set of 3 + 1 run of 4, and 1 run of 7.

Gameplay: Players draw cards, lay down completed phases, and discard cards to get rid of their hand. Players can “hit” on laid-down phases to discard more cards.

Scoring: Players score penalty points for cards remaining in their hand at the end of each round. The game ends when one player completes all 10 phases, and the player with the lowest total score wins.

Player Experience

Phase 10 Master offers a challenging and strategic experience, appealing to both beginners and experienced players. The game requires constant adjustment of strategy based on the cards received, making it engaging and mentally stimulating. The durable cards and clear design ensure long-lasting gameplay.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers a high level of strategic thinking and planning.

Replayability: With different phases and card combinations, each game is unique.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for children over 7 years old.

Long-Lasting: Games typically last between 60-90 minutes, providing an extended gaming experience.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a learning curve due to the various phases and rules.

Luck Factor: While strategy is key, the draw of cards can introduce an element of luck.

Space Requirements: The game requires a significant amount of table space to lay out the phases and discard piles.

Personal Thoughts on Phase 10 Master

Phase 10 Master is ideal for those who enjoy strategic card games and are looking for a challenging yet fun experience. It is suitable for families and groups of friends who appreciate games that combine strategy and social interaction. While it may require some time to learn the rules, the engaging gameplay and varied phases ensure that players will remain interested and entertained.

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