Aura

Breaking Games · Board game · 2017
2–4 · best 4 20–40 min Weight 1.7/5
rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Aura delights players who love bluffing and simultaneous planning – great for quick, tense rounds.

Highlights
  • Bluff and simultaneous strategy
  • Low learning curve
  • Fast playtime
Keep in mind
  • Needs constant attention
  • Limited to four players
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Aura is a card game that blends easy‑to‑learn rules with enough depth to keep even veteran gamers hooked. Each player starts with a personal deck of five distinct colors – the colors appear on both the front and back of the cards, creating a visible "aura" that hints at the type of card in your hand. In every round, all players simultaneously play a card face‑down, trying to protect their own deck while attacking opponents'. When the cards are flipped, effects can swing the game dramatically, so staying adaptable is key. The win condition is simple: finish with the most cards remaining in your deck.

Hand Management forces you to decide which colors to play now and which to hold for crucial moments, while Pattern Building emerges as you try to arrange color sequences that maximize your effects. Simultaneous Action Selection adds a bluffing layer – you may try to mislead rivals about your plan, but you must remain flexible because the reveal can flip everything. Games run 20‑40 minutes and the light weight (1.7/5) ensures a gentle learning curve, yet mastering Aura takes practice. Designed for 2‑4 players, it pleases both strategic thinkers and casual groups looking for a quick, engaging round. If you enjoy modern card games, simultaneous decisions, and a dash of bluff, Aura might be the perfect gateway into that world.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher Breaking Games
Designer Michael Orion
Artist Cassandra Orion

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play?
2 to 4 players.
How long does a game take?
Typically 20–40 minutes, depending on player count.
What is the game's complexity?
Easy to learn, but offers enough strategic depth to keep you coming back.
What components are included?
Each player gets a colored deck, scoring markers, and a concise rulebook.
Who is the game best suited for?
Both casual gamers looking for a quick fun round and strategy fans who enjoy card tactics.
Do I need expansions to play?
No, the base game contains everything needed for a full experience.
Is there deck‑building involved?
No deck‑building; each player uses a pre‑set deck with the five colors.

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