Pumafiosi (2022) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Pumafiosi is a card game released in 2022, designed by Paul K. Halkyon and illustrated by Bitewing Games. The game falls under the categories of Animals, Card Game, and Mafia, blending elements of hand management, once-per-game abilities, push your luck, slide/push, and trick-taking mechanics. With a playtime of 10-30 minutes, it is suitable for 2-5 players aged 8 and up.

Game Components of Pumafiosi

A deck of cards

A hierarchy ladder for placing cards

Tokens for special effects (e.g., bulletproof vest)

Deluxe components like tiny poker chips (though these have been noted as hard to read and feel crumbly).

How To Setup Pumafiosi

To set up Pumafiosi, players start by shuffling the deck and dealing three cards to each player. The hierarchy ladder is placed in the middle of the table, ready for cards to be slotted into it as players win tricks.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick-Taking: Players aim to play the second-highest card in each trick to win the round and place their card on the hierarchy ladder.

Push-Your-Luck: Higher cards can later bump previously placed cards down the ladder, affecting final scoring.

Hierarchy Mechanic: Cards are placed on a ladder, and their position at the end of the game determines points. The goal is to have cards at high rungs on the ladder.

Color Goals: Optional expansion includes goals like collecting two cards of the same color or having all five colors, with penalties for collecting a fourth card of the same color.

Tokens: Special tokens can be added to the game, altering the hierarchy or bidding process.

Player Experience

Pumafiosi offers a quick and engaging gameplay experience, lasting between 10 to 30 minutes. Players need to balance the risk of falling down the hierarchy ladder with the goal of ending up at a high enough rung to score well. The game is notable for its clever mechanisms, but it also involves a significant luck factor, which may deter some players.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: Blends trick-taking and push-your-luck in an innovative way.

Engaging Gameplay: Quick and engaging, making it a good filler game.

Theme Integration: The art and components effectively bring out the Mafia theme.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for non-gamers and family members who enjoy classic card games.

Cons

High Luck Factor: The game’s reliance on luck may bother players who prefer more strategic games.

Deluxe Component Issues: The deluxe tiny poker chips are hard to read and feel crumbly.

Complexity for Family: While family-friendly, it might be slightly more complicated than some other options for casual family gaming.

Personal Thoughts on Pumafiosi

Pumafiosi is ideal for players who enjoy games like 6nimmt or L.L.A.M.A. Card Game, where luck plays a significant role. It is a good choice for non-gamers, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight game with a partner. However, heavy gamers might find the luck factor too high and the game too directionless for their taste. Despite this, the game’s unique hierarchy mechanic and clever design make it a standout in the Criminal Capers collection.

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