Chasing Shadows
- Designer David Spalinski
- Publisher (Self-Published)
- Illustration David Spalinski
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What to Expect
You play agents in a covert espionage underworld, trying to stay hidden while manipulating others' choices. Chasing Shadows is a trick-avoidance game where players draft which suit they must follow from a dwindling pool, limiting opponents' options and forcing unwanted tricks. Taking cards scores points (bad), but planned plays can erase previous points. After three rounds, the lowest total score wins.
Who Is This Game For?
For players who enjoy tactical card play and social interaction in groups of 3–5. With a minimum age of 10 and a playtime of about 40 minutes, it fits between family and lighter hobby games. Prior experience with trick-taking helps but isn't strictly required.
How It Works
The core is Trick-taking: in each round players draft the suit/lead they must follow from a shrinking pool. By restricting choices you can push the next player into winning tricks. Winning tricks gives penalty points, while the game allows deliberate planning to remove earlier points. The game runs three rounds and the lowest score after scoring wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by David Spalinski, Chasing Shadows pairs classic trick-taking with a draft element that increases player interaction. The lowest-score-wins family gives it a different strategic aim than many trick games. It is self-published (Self-Published) and tied to spy/secret-agent themes.
Pro
- Draft + Trick-taking creates high interaction between players
- Short playtime (~40 minutes) allows multiple games
- Lowest-score objective offers a fresh twist on trick games
Contra
- Only playable with 3–5 players; no solo option
- Requires familiarity with trick mechanics for smoother play
Setting & atmosphere
The theme is the secret world of espionage where agents risk exposure or remain hidden. The setting is taken directly from the designer's description of the game's spy underworld.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on how drafting affects the next player's options; mastering that interaction is more important than long-term planning at the start.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No. The game supports 3–5 players; a solo mode is not listed.
How long does a game really take?
Duration is about 40 minutes; the game consists of three rounds, plus time for setup and explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with trick-taking games is helpful; minimum age is 10.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines classic trick-taking with a draft mechanic and a lowest-score-wins goal, differentiating it from many standard trick games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes; with a 10+ age recommendation and ~40-minute playtime it suits families familiar with card games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Trick-taking and drafting is the game's standout mechanic.
Fazit
A tight, tactical trick-avoidance card game for 3–5 players that rewards careful drafting. Recommended if you like trick-taking mechanics and ~40-minute sessions.
