9.0
rating
Ludopedia
7.1
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
Perfect for those who love fast-paced card games and enjoy predicting opponents' moves. The bidding system adds great tension!
Highlights
- Well-balanced bidding mechanic
- Quick and dynamic gameplay
- Partial info via card backs
- Easy to learn, hard to master
Keep in mind
- Missing a bid can be frustrating
- Requires 3 or 4 players
RECOMMENDED
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Get ready for a duel of feline cunning in 9 Lives! The goal is simple: score more than your opponents, but the path to victory requires surgical precision. The game uses trick-taking mechanics, but with an interesting twist: the cards show the suit color on the back, allowing you to deduce what others are holding.
The dynamics begin with the bidding phase. You must predict how many tricks you'll win (from 1 to 6), either by nailing an exact number or risking a range. But be careful: competition is fierce, and each number can only be bid by up to two players. If you hit your bid, you earn points; if you miss, you lose them.
The game follows the 'must follow' rule and features a fixed trump suit to allow for unexpected turnarounds. The most strategic part happens after the trick: the winner chooses one of the cards played by opponents to add to their own hand. This creates a cycle where winning gives you more power but also makes your future bids more complex.
The match is fast and dynamic, ending after four rounds or as soon as someone reaches 9 points. It's the perfect kind of game for those who enjoy calculating risks and trying to 'trick' their friends with a poker face, while hoping luck is on their side. If you enjoy quick card games with hints of bluffing and a lot of risk management, 9 Lives is the right choice for your table.
The dynamics begin with the bidding phase. You must predict how many tricks you'll win (from 1 to 6), either by nailing an exact number or risking a range. But be careful: competition is fierce, and each number can only be bid by up to two players. If you hit your bid, you earn points; if you miss, you lose them.
The game follows the 'must follow' rule and features a fixed trump suit to allow for unexpected turnarounds. The most strategic part happens after the trick: the winner chooses one of the cards played by opponents to add to their own hand. This creates a cycle where winning gives you more power but also makes your future bids more complex.
The match is fast and dynamic, ending after four rounds or as soon as someone reaches 9 points. It's the perfect kind of game for those who enjoy calculating risks and trying to 'trick' their friends with a poker face, while hoping luck is on their side. If you enjoy quick card games with hints of bluffing and a lot of risk management, 9 Lives is the right choice for your table.
GALLERY
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In English
3
REC
4
BEST
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Allplay, BoardGameTables.com, JELLY JELLY GAMES, Ludofun
Designer
新澤 大樹 (Taiki Shinzawa)
Artist
Chris Smith
Is the game complex?
Not at all! It's very accessible. If you've played any trick-taking game (like Hearts or Bridge), you'll get the hang of it in minutes.
How long does a game last?
Very quick, between 20 and 30 minutes, making it ideal as a filler or a starter for the night.
How many people can play?
The game is designed for 3 or 4 players. It doesn't work with only 2.
Does the cat theme affect the gameplay?
The theme is mostly cosmetic and charming, but it fits perfectly with the 'lives' concept and feline cunning.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. It's a great entry point for 'Predictive Bid' mechanics and trick-taking games.
Do I need any expansions to play?
No, the base game is complete and delivers the full experience.