MANTIS
- Designer Ken Gruhl , Jeremy Posner
- Publisher Exploding Kittens , ADC Blackfire Entertainment , Geekach LLC , Rebel Sp. z o.o.
- Illustration Matthew Inman
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In MANTIS, players collect matching cards by either stealing from others or scoring their own cards. The goal is to be the first to have ten cards in your score pile. The game blends the simplicity of UNO with the strategic depth of Gin Rummy, creating a dynamic experience full of interaction and risk-taking. Quick rounds keep the game lively and engaging for both kids and adults.
Who Is This Game For?
MANTIS is suitable for families and casual players aged 7 and up, offering about 10 minutes of fast gameplay. Its simple rules make it accessible to beginners, while children often outperform adults. It is not a complex strategy game but a light, interactive card game for 2 to 6 players.
How It Works
The core mechanics include hand management, where you carefully manage your cards, and push your luck, deciding how much risk to take when stealing cards. Set collection encourages gathering cards of the same type to score points. The take-that mechanic allows you to steal from opponents and hinder their progress. The game ends when a player collects ten cards in their scoring pile.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ken Gruhl and Jeremy Posner, MANTIS was recommended by the Spiel des Jahres jury in 2023. It offers simple rules combined with surprising depth and player interaction through stealing. Published by Exploding Kittens, it belongs to the LongPack Games family.
Awards
2023
- 2023 American Tabletop Early Gamers — Recommended
- 2023 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
- 2023 Gra Roku Best Party Game — Nominated
- 2023 Swiss Gamers Award Family — Nominated
Pro
- Quick playtime around 10 minutes
- Easy to learn, suitable for children from 7 years
- High player interaction through stealing and blocking
- Spiel des Jahres 2023 recommended
Contra
- Limited depth for complex gamers
- Focused on short, casual sessions
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game features insect-like shrimp creatures (mantises) as cards to collect and steal. It takes place in an abstract animal-themed world focusing on player interaction rather than narrative.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Manage your hand carefully and only take risks when stealing if the reward is worth it.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, MANTIS is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 10 minutes, allowing for quick and repeatable rounds.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is simple and suitable for beginners and families with no prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
MANTIS combines UNO's simplicity with Gin Rummy's tactical depth and emphasizes player interaction through stealing.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, with a minimum age of 7 and easy rules, it is well suited for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Push Your Luck and Take That mechanics create tension and interaction during card collection and stealing.
Fazit
MANTIS is highly recommended for players who enjoy quick, interactive card games. Families and casual groups benefit from its short playtime and easy learning curve.
