Smallfolk
Smallfolk at your next game night?
Add Smallfolk to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Gloria Lau , Alfie Wright
- Publisher Roc Nest Games , DSV Games
- Illustration Thomas Chamberlain-Keen , Ver Fadul , Angela Gubert , Nadine Jakubowski , Moreno Paissan , Sandra Singh
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You play an Adventurer collecting helpful smallfolk, relics and visiting mythic wonders. As a cosy tableau-builder you play cards into your story to accumulate Victory Points. The game ends when the central Victory Points have been claimed; then players total collected points and card values. The story deck is shuffled for repeat plays.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced family groups and enthusiasts (ages 10+), Smallfolk supports 1–4 players including a solo mode. With an approximate 60-minute playtime it fits a typical game-night slot without being an all-night commitment.
How It Works
Core mechanics are Open Drafting, Set Collection and Race. Players draft cards openly, place them into a personal tableau and build sets that yield benefits and Victory Points. There's competition for central points (Race), so timing and card choice matter. The game focuses on card play and tableau development over multiple rounds.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Gloria Lau and Alfie Wright, Smallfolk blends tableau-building with mythological motifs (Arabian, Celtic, Greek). As a card game with open drafting it emphasizes story construction and replayability. Published by Roc Nest Games and DSV Games.
Pro
- Tableau and set-collection mechanics provide strategic depth
- Open drafting increases player interaction and choice
- Includes a solo mode (1 player)
- Approx. 60-minute playtime suits game-night sessions
Contra
- Drafting can require a learning curve for novices
- Not a short filler game (around 60 minutes)
- No awards listed in the provided data
Setting & atmosphere
The theme draws on myths and folklore from several cultures (including Arabian, Celtic and Greek). You journey as an Adventurer, meet smallfolk and collect relics and wonders for your story.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on building coherent sets in your tableau and watch which central Victory Points are contested; drafting priorities become clearer over a few rounds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports solo play (1 player).
How long does a game really take?
Listed duration is about 60 minutes; include setup and teaching time when estimating total time.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with drafting and set-collection helps; recommended age is 10 and up.
How does this compare to similar games?
Smallfolk combines open drafting with tableau-building and a narrative focus, highlighting story construction rather than heavy engine optimization.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, for families with some gaming experience and children about 10 years or older.
What mechanic makes it special?
Open Drafting paired with tableau/set-collection is the standout mechanic, driving interaction and long-term planning.
Fazit
If you like tableau-driven card games with drafting and a mythic theme, Smallfolk is worth a look. Best for groups who enjoy 60-minute drafting experiences.
Smallfolk at your next game night?
Add Smallfolk to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Smallfolk to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
