Pairs
- Designer James Ernest , Paul Peterson , Heinrich Glumpler
- Publisher Cheapass Games , AMIGO , Breaking Games , Digital Eel , Hobby World
- Illustration Brett Bean , BJ Becker , Echo Chernik , Ferran Criado , James Ernest , Phil Foglio
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Pairs, players try to avoid collecting pairs of matching cards. On their turn, they choose to either "hit" and draw a card or forfeit the round. If a pair is drawn, the round ends and penalty points are assigned. The game continues until a player exceeds a penalty threshold. Each round lasts about 15 minutes, offering quick, tense decisions and risk management.
Who Is This Game For?
Pairs is an accessible party game for 2 to 8 players, ideal for casual gamers who enjoy quick decisions without deep strategy. Its short playtime fits well for families, groups, and players seeking light entertainment.
How It Works
Players draw cards from a special deck and decide to either take a risk by drawing another card (Push Your Luck) or to forfeit the round and accept penalty points. The Score-and-Reset mechanic resets rounds after pairs occur, while the Single Loser mechanic ends the game when one player exceeds the penalty limit.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Heinrich Glumpler, James Ernest, and Paul Peterson, Pairs was nominated for the 2014 Golden Geek Best Party Board Game. It belongs to the Pairs Game System series by Cheapass Games, featuring different art styles and minor rule variations. Its unique blend of Push Your Luck and Score-and-Reset mechanics sets it apart.
Awards
2014
Pro
- Quick rounds around 15 minutes
- Simple rules, easy to learn
- Push Your Luck combined with Score-and-Reset
- Supports 2 to 8 players, flexible player count
Contra
- Limited strategic depth, luck-dependent
- No solo mode
- Themes are mainly decorative, not gameplay-driven
Setting & Atmosphäre
Pairs is an abstract card game without a strong thematic setting, though various editions feature Art Nouveau or themes like the American Old West or Zombies within the Pairs Game System series.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Use the risk element wisely and watch other players to avoid pairs and minimize penalty points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Pairs is designed for 2 to 8 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game of Pairs lasts about 15 minutes, perfect for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is simple and suitable for players without prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Pairs combines Push Your Luck with Score-and-Reset and Single Loser mechanics, making it distinct among card games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, its simple rules and short playing time make it family-friendly.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Push Your Luck mechanic combined with Score-and-Reset creates dynamic risk management.
Fazit
Pairs is recommended for those wanting a quick, easy-to-learn card game focused on risk and interaction. It is less suited for players seeking deep strategy.
