BraveRats
- Designer Seiji Kanai
- Publisher Kanai Factory , 999 Games , Albi , Blue Orange (EU) , Blue Orange Games
- Illustration Noboru Sugiura , Christophe Swal
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In BraveRats, each player simultaneously selects a card from their hand, then reveals them at the same time. Cards have values and special powers that influence the outcome. The higher card wins the round, but special abilities can change the result. Players compete until one wins four rounds. The game emphasizes quick decisions and tactical bluffing in short sessions.
Who Is This Game For?
BraveRats is designed for two players aged 8 and up who enjoy quick, tactical card games. It is a family game with simple rules and a short playtime of about 15 minutes. No prior experience is needed, but players benefit from strategic thinking.
How It Works
Each player has eight cards numbered 0 to 7 with special powers. Both players simultaneously choose a card (Simultaneous Action Selection) and reveal them. The highest card wins the round, influenced by the cards’ special effects. The goal is to win four rounds first. The game mixes Rock-Paper-Scissors elements with card management.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Seiji Kanai, known for Love Letter, BraveRats won the 2014 Parents' Choice Fun Stuff Award. It is part of Blue Orange Games’ Europe Collection and combines classic War game aspects with modern simultaneous action selection in a two-player format.
Awards
- 2014/Spring Parents' Choice Fun Stuff Award Winner — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime of about 15 minutes
- Simultaneous action selection creates tension
- Special card powers add tactical depth
- Suitable for two players aged 8 and up
Contra
- Only playable with two players
- Simple and short, less appeal for complex strategy fans
- Limited long-term motivation without expansions
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a fantasy theme featuring rats as characters, but primarily plays as an abstract card game without deep narrative elements.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the special powers of cards and observe your opponent’s play style closely.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, BraveRats is designed strictly for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is family-friendly with simple rules requiring no prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
BraveRats mixes classic War game elements with simultaneous action selection and special powers, setting it apart from basic card games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for ages 8 and up and is accessible as a family game.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of simultaneous action selection and Rock-Paper-Scissors mechanics with special card powers stands out.
Fazit
BraveRats is recommended for players seeking fast, tactical duels for two. Its short duration suits quick play sessions, especially for fans of simultaneous card games with special abilities.












