Card Game Favorites

Continuing on with our Christmas recommendations, I'm not talking about your basic game of Spades, Poker, or Rummy. Our favorite card games may be themed, adventure related, or simply just a lot of fun for the whole family. Check out the Gamers Cafe selections below and see what you think!

One of the most challenging and interesting two player games we've played recently has to be Lost Cities. There are five, colored expeditions for each player and only one set of ten numbered cards for each expedition. The goal is to attain 20 points in your expedition, but if your opponent outscores you, you could be in for some trouble as you'll miss your goal. It's a game of timing and strategy.

Another great family pleaser is the Clue Card Game. This version is actually more fun that the board game, especially with three or more players. Instead of marching around the board, players make accusations based on where they are in the country, and from peeking at other players' cards as events come up during play.

We also enjoy a series of thinkers that employ some brain power. Wizard is a great variation of the classic game of Spades, with a "Wizard" card that overpowers aces. It creates some interesting strategic decisions. Also try Phase 10, a terrific game for many people. There are ten phases, each with a different requirement to fulfill (a set of 3, a run of 7, etc). It's easy to get left behind if you can't satisfy your phase! Think of Set as an advanced form of Memory, where you match cards. In Set, there are many ways to match that will keep your gears spinning and your mind sharp! Don't miss Quiddler, another game by the makers of Set and Wizard. Players build words and try to outscore their oppononets. It's a bit like Scrabble, in a faster paced format.

A personal favorite of mine is a game called Citadels. In this game, players build cities for points. Each round, cards are dealt to players that contain personalities with special powers. Some characters disable others, some double your money income, and others allow you to take another player's city buildings. It involves some degree of planning to outwit your opponent(s).

Last year, I purchased Poison since we often find ourselves with three people. Players attempt to fill three cauldrons with numbered cards until a threshold is reached. The player that overflows the cauldron has to take the cards. Avoid the poison vials and score the least points to claim victory!

All of these are some of our favorites! So instead of playing Rummy and War with standard cards, check these out! They are all excellent games.