Trickster: Fantasy (2015) Board Game

Trickster: Fantasy is a card game designed by Anthony Cournoyer and Kaitlynn Peavler, released in in 2015. It is a fantasy-themed game that involves elements of pattern-building, take that, and trick-taking mechanics. The game is designed for 3-7 players, with a runtime of 5-15 minutes, making it a quick and engaging game for small to medium-sized groups.

Game Components of Trickster: Fantasy

54 cards: Including various character cards with distinct abilities.

Multiple licenses: Allows mixing and matching characters from different sets, such as Fantasy, Tianxia, and Symbiosis.

Card designs: Updated with language-neutral diagrams for international play.

How To Setup Trickster: Fantasy

To set up the game, players need to shuffle the deck and deal a certain number of cards to each player. The exact number can vary, but typically, each player starts with a handful of cards. The remaining cards are placed face down in a draw pile. The top card of the draw pile is turned over to start the discard pile. Players then take turns playing cards from their hand, using the special abilities of the characters to outmaneuver their opponents.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick-taking: Players take turns playing cards, with the highest card in the suit led winning the trick.

Special abilities: Each character card has unique powers that can be used to manipulate the game state, such as moving cards between players’ collections or altering the order of play.

Suit majority: The objective is to gain the majority in specific suits to win the game.

Player Experience

**Trickster: Fantasy** offers a fast-paced and engaging experience, ideal for those who enjoy strategic card games. The fantasy theme and diverse character abilities add a layer of depth and replayability, making each game unique. Players must balance using their special powers effectively with managing their hand and adapting to the changing game state.

Pros

Easy to learn: New players can quickly grasp the core mechanics, making it a good introductory set.

High replayability: The combination of different character abilities and the ability to mix sets keeps the game fresh.

Strategic depth: Special powers and suit management provide ample opportunities for strategic play.

Cons

Complexity in special abilities: Some players may find certain abilities confusing or difficult to explain, especially in the Symbiosis deck.

Time-consuming setup: Determining who has the most or fewest cards in hand can slow down the game slightly.

Personal Thoughts on Trickster: Fantasy

**Trickster: Fantasy** is perfect for fans of trick-taking card games and those who enjoy a blend of strategy and thematic depth. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the flexibility of mixing and matching characters from different sets to create unique gameplay experiences. While it may not be ideal for very casual players due to the complexity of some special abilities, it offers a rich and engaging experience for those willing to dive in.

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