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Make-a-Million

Make-a-Million

2-9
Players
30
Minutes
9+
Age
1934
Published

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What to Expect

In Make-a-Million, players form partnerships to capture tricks containing money cards, aiming to be the first to reach a million points. The highest bidder names the trump suit and collects a face-down widow card. Special cards like the Tiger, Bull, and Bear add strategic twists by acting as highest trump, doubling trick values, or canceling them. Variants exist for 4, 6, and 8 players, enriching gameplay.

Who Is This Game For?

Make-a-Million targets players aged 9 and up who enjoy team and trick-taking games. As a family-friendly card game lasting about 30 minutes, it suits casual players with some experience in card games. The rules are accessible but require understanding of bidding and partnerships.

How It Works

Players form partnerships and play cards in turns to win tricks (trick-taking). The highest bidder determines the trump suit and takes a face-down widow card. Money cards in tricks add points; the goal is to be the first partnership to score a million points. Special cards like the Tiger (highest trump), Bull (doubles trick value), and Bear (cancels trick value) influence the flow.

Team-Based Game Trick-taking

What Makes It Special

Make-a-Million, designed by George S. Parker in 1934, is a classic from Parker Brothers combining team-based gameplay with trick-taking mechanics and special action cards. It supports up to 9 players with variants for different group sizes, making it an early example of partnership trick-taking games with innovative twists.

Pro

  • Classic team-based trick-taking with bidding
  • Special action cards add depth
  • Variants for different player counts up to 9
  • Short playtime of about 30 minutes

Contra

  • No solo mode available
  • Slightly complex for absolute beginners due to bidding and partnerships
  • Abstract theme without strong narrative

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game has no specific thematic setting and focuses on card gameplay. Historically, it was released in the USA in 1934 by Parker Brothers.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus first on understanding bidding mechanics and the effects of special cards before exploring advanced strategies.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, Make-a-Million requires at least 2 players and supports up to 9.

How long does a game really take?

A game typically lasts about 30 minutes, suitable for quick sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

Basic knowledge of trick-taking and bidding games helps, as it involves partnerships and special cards.

How does this compare to similar games?

Make-a-Million uniquely combines classic trick-taking with bidding and special cards like Tiger, Bull, and Bear.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, it is family-friendly from age 9 with moderate complexity.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its blend of team-based gameplay and trick-taking with special action cards stands out.

Fazit

Make-a-Million is recommended for fans of classic trick-taking games who enjoy team play and strategic bidding. Its short playtime suits quick sessions but requires some familiarity with partnership mechanics.