Poisons (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Poisons is a card game that was released in 2020 by Ankama. Designed by Chris Darsaklis and Bruno Faidutti, the game falls under the categories of bluffing, card game, and party game. With a runtime of 15 minutes, Poisons is suitable for players aged 8 and above and can accommodate 3 to 8 players.

Game Components of Poisons

Cards: Representing either innocuous liquids or deadly poisons.

Character Cards: Used for passing around the table.

Point Tokens: For tracking scores.

Special Drink Cards: Optional, with special effects introduced in advanced rules.

Rulebook: Available in English.

How To Setup Poisons

To set up _Poisons_, each player starts with a hand of cards and a character card. The game is ready to play once each player has their character card and a set of drink cards. Players then secretly add a card from their hand to each opponent’s drink, which is represented by placing a card face down under the character card.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Bluffing Mechanic: Players secretly add cards to opponents’ drinks.

Push Your Luck Mechanic: Players decide whether to drink the contents of their cup.

Take That Mechanic: Players can sabotage each other’s chances.

Objective: The player with the most points after four rounds wins.
– Players score points by drinking their cup if it contains no poison.
– If a cup contains poison, the player scores nothing.
– Players who choose not to drink earn minimal points.

Player Experience

In _Poisons_, players engage in a high-stakes game of risk and bluffing. Each turn, players must decide whether to drink from their cup, knowing there’s a chance it might be poisoned. The game is simple to learn but offers depth through its advanced rules and special drink cards. The gameplay is social and interactive, making it a great fit for larger families or group gatherings.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to players of all ages.

High Replayability: Randomized point values and special drinks add variety to each game.

Social Interaction: Encourages bluffing and strategic thinking among players.

Short Playtime: Games last about 15-30 minutes.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and up, though recommended for 5+ by some reviewers.

Cons

Potential for Hard Feelings: Players can be directly targeted, leading to some conflict.

Luck Element: Decisions are heavily influenced by chance, which may not appeal to all players.

Simple Components: Point tokens are noted as the weakest part of the art design.

Personal Thoughts on Poisons

_Poisons_ is an excellent choice for families or groups looking for a light-hearted, yet engaging game. It’s ideal for those who enjoy bluffing and strategic risk-taking. While it may not appeal to players who prefer more complex or strategy-heavy games, its simplicity and short playtime make it a great addition to any game night. The game’s theme, though mildly creepy, is more whimsical than scary, making it suitable for a wide range of players.

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