Duels of Cartisora

Shame there was a dupe card and wasn't sent replacement

I really enjoy the simulated 'fight' of this game, where you need to think quickly and strategically, while getting inside the decision cycle of your opponent. I think my fave gladiator is Rilka, but Mercutio can really come through with his backhanded moves.

Imagine the old rock-paper-scissors game, but with vastly more options and variability, as each warrior in the deck has different abilities, yet they're all balanced, so you can win with any warrior, then you've imagined two asymmetrical fighters in the battle pits of Cartisora.

didn't do anything for me. :(

This game gives me all the thinky, puzzly, mind game moments that I love in many (two player) games but does so in a small box and quick playtime.

Reminded me of Campy Creatures, with the card play, but add in asymmetric characters and a shorter playtime (which will help it hit table so much more) and one of my favorite things this game has, a character card for your opponent!! During our plays I just kept talking about how nice it was haha I think I annoyed my wife. It’s a common complaint in asymmetric war games for us when you get blindsided by an opponents rule-breaking skill (think epic duels/unmatched). But being able to see everything your opponent has is so helpful, and truly such a simple thing to add-in, great touch. No more complaining “I didn’t know you could do that!”, it manages to be a perfect-information asymmetric war game in ~10min.

The card art might be a bit odd for some, but in a great unique sort of way, I really enjoy it, first thing that drew me in.