Rainbow (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Rainbow is a card game designed by Mathias Spaan and released in in 2021. It is a memory and pattern-building game that is suitable for players aged 7 and above. The game is all about creating colorful rainbows through matching and memory challenges, making it a fun and engaging experience for players of all ages.

Game Components of Rainbow

60-card deck featuring 10 sets of six cards numbered 1-6.

Point cards placed face-up in the center of the table, equal to the number of players.

No complex boards or additional components, making it a straightforward and portable game.

How To Setup Rainbow

To set up *Rainbow*, each player is dealt a hand of cards aligned with the player count. In the center of the table, place one point card face-up for each player, drawn from the same shared deck. This simple setup ensures the game can start quickly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Types: Players can play single cards, sets (collections of identical numbers), or runs (sequential numbers).

Trick Structure: The lead player sets the type of play (single, set, or run), and subsequent players must follow with a matching alignment. If a set or run is played, the next players must play a higher set or run to win the trick.

Scoring: The player who wins the trick takes the highest point card(s) from the center and adds their played cards to the center.

Game Objective: Collect the most points by winning tricks strategically, while managing card resources to remain in the game.

Player Experience

*Rainbow* initially appears simple but reveals surprising depth as players strategize over which cards to play and when. The game balances short playtime (under 10 minutes) with meaningful strategic decisions, making it enjoyable for both children and adults. The dynamic nature of the game, where leading a trick can significantly influence the outcome, keeps players engaged.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Despite its short playtime, the game offers substantial strategic elements.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged seven and up, making it a great family game.

Portability: Simple components make it easy to take on the go.

Affordable: Priced under $10.

Cons

Two-Player Variant: The game is less enjoyable with two players due to the extended gameplay and different mechanics required.

Limited Player Count Flexibility: While it supports 2-6 players, it is not ideal for two players.

Personal Thoughts on Rainbow

*Rainbow* is an excellent choice for families and casual game nights. Its quick playtime and easy-to-learn rules make it accessible to a wide range of players, while its hidden strategic layers keep it engaging for those looking for more depth. It’s particularly great for parents looking for a game to play with their children that still offers a fun challenge for adults. However, it may not be the best fit for serious gamers seeking complex, lengthy experiences.

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