The Game

The Game (2015) is a cooperative card game where you work to discard 98 numbered cards onto four piles in order. You aren't allowed to communicate about the cards you have, so you must try and leave things open enough for other players while also working to make the best use of your cards. It's a simple Solitaire game that is fascinating to see play out as you lean on hints and stares to influence the other player.

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You play in turns and must play at least two cards. On two decks you have to play lower than the last card. On the other two decks, you have to play higher. Things get interesting because you can play more than two cards if you think you should. For example, if you have a run of cards. A final twist is you can also ignore the order if you can play a card exactly 10 higher or lower than the last card played.

People say this is like The Mind because you can't communicate about what you want your partner player to do. However, it's different here. You aren't allowed to directly give information about the right card to play, but other communication is allowed. Whereas in The Mind it's about how long you wait to play, in The Game it's about working that grey area of subtle hints you allow.

The result is a simple game of collaborative solitaire-style challenge. It's up to you how much or how little communication you allow. Get that balance right and it's a brilliant game to pass some time. And because of this, you can easily tailor it to the ages and abilities of those playing.

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Our examiner, Andy Robertson, first checked The Game 22 months ago. It was re-examined by Rob Prior and updated 14 months ago.