Anomia

Anomia Press, asmodee, Broadway Toys LTD · Board game · 2010
3–6 · best 5 30 min Weight 1.0/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Buy
8.3 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for energizing any crowd, especially those who love loud, fast-paced party games.

Highlights
  • Frantic and hilarious dynamics
  • Rules learned in two minutes
  • Creates funny 'brain freeze' moments
  • Ideal for large groups
Keep in mind
  • Can be way too noisy
  • Heavy language dependence
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
You know that moment when you know exactly what you want to say, but the word simply vanishes from your mind? Well, Anomia turns that mental block into pure fun and chaos. The game plays with the way our brains store random information—from soda brands to dog breeds—and tests how you handle it when the pressure mounts.

The dynamics are frantic: each player has their own pile of cards. You draw a card from the center deck and reveal it. If the symbol on your card matches the symbol on another player's card, the duel begins! The goal is to shout an example of the category on your opponent's card before they shout an example of the category on yours. Sounds easy? Try doing that while your heart is racing and everyone is shouting at the same time.

To make things even crazier, there are wild cards, which make any symbol match, drastically increasing the number of targets and the confusion at the table. Additionally, 'cascades' can occur: when you lose a card, it reveals the one underneath, potentially triggering a new duel instantly. It's a game of reflexes, vocabulary, and, above all, who can avoid panicking first. It's the perfect choice for those who want to laugh at their own inability to remember the name of a tropical fruit while someone stares at them expectantly. Get ready for lots of shouting, laughter, and that classic 'it was on the tip of my tongue' feeling!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 REC
5 BEST
6 BEST
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Game details

Families

Misc: Mensa Select Series: Anomia
Publisher Anomia Press, asmodee, Broadway Toys LTD, Cocktail Games, Coiledspring Games, Competo / Marektoy, Happy Baobab, KOSMOS, Lúdilo, Magellan, Nasza Księgarnia, The Op Games, Piatnik
Designer Andrew Innes
Artist Cezary Szulc, Kinetic, Paul Laane, Peter Wocken
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game hard to learn?
Not at all! The rules are super simple, and you can explain them to your group in under five minutes.
How many people can play?
The game works with 3 to 6 players, making it ideal for social groups.
How long does a game last?
It's very quick, usually lasting about 30 minutes, which makes it great for multiple replays.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they have a basic vocabulary for the categories, but it's an absolute hit with teens and adults.
Do I need specific knowledge to play?
No, just basic general knowledge. The challenge isn't the difficulty of the question, but the time pressure!