Poison
- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher AMIGO , Board Game Walker 桌遊行者 , O Capturador , cosaic , G3
- Illustration Jessica R. E. Bethke , Design Edge , Paul Herbert , Kugatsuhime , Jessica Lindsay , Aleksandra Sawik
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Poison, players try to avoid overflowing colored cauldrons by playing cards with values from 1 to 7 and jokers worth 4. Players take turns discarding cards onto color piles, summing values and risking taking the pile if it exceeds 13. The goal is to minimize penalty points by holding the majority in one color to discard those cards. The game demands tactical hand management in fast-paced rounds.
Who Is This Game For?
Poison is a family-friendly game with light complexity, suitable for players aged 8 and up. With a playtime of about 30 minutes, it fits well into quick gaming sessions. No prior experience is needed, but some tactical thinking for hand management helps. It's designed for groups of 3 to 6 players looking for a simple yet challenging card game.
How It Works
Each player receives a hand of cards in three suits plus jokers, valued 1 to 7 (jokers always 4). On their turn, players place a card on the matching pile, add up the pile’s total, and if it exceeds 13, must take the pile’s cards. At round end, players score penalty points for cards except for the suit they have the most of, which they discard. Jokers count double. This creates a risk-reward hand management mechanic.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Poison was recommended for the 2009 Spiel des Jahres. Its simple yet strategic hand management set in an alchemy theme distinguishes it from other card games. It’s a light family game with a unique card value addition mechanic.
Awards
2009
2006
- 2009 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
- 2005 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime of about 30 minutes
- Simple rules with tactical hand management
- Recommended Spiel des Jahres 2009
- Supports 3 to 6 players
Contra
- Not playable solo
- Limited complexity for experienced gamers
- Minimal theme might feel light
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game’s alchemy theme uses colored cards and jokers as ingredients in cauldrons. Players try to avoid overfilling cauldrons, fitting the mystical atmosphere.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on managing your hand and tracking pile sums to avoid penalty points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Poison is designed for 3 to 6 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 30 minutes, suitable for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The rules are simple, but some tactical hand management is beneficial.
How does this compare to similar games?
Poison combines hand management with additive card values, differing from typical trick-taking or set-collection games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is a light family game for ages 8 and up with a short playtime.
What mechanic makes it special?
The hand management and sum-based pile mechanic with jokers are key features.
Fazit
Poison is a recommended family card game for players who enjoy quick, tactical gameplay. Its short duration and easy learning curve make it suitable for both kids and adults. Players seeking deeper strategy might find it light but accessible.
