8.3
rating
Ludopedia
7.1
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you love fast trick‑taking and the thrill of passing a cursed bottle before the imp snatches it, Bottle Imp is a solid pick.
Highlights
- Dynamic trick play
- Team mode
- Premium art
- Short playtime
Keep in mind
- Points can be lost
- Light learning curve
- Card luck factor
RECOMMENDED
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Bottle Imp returns to the table as a classic trick‑taking game with modern twists: team modes and a 5‑6 player variant. Inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel, the game revolves around a cursed bottle that supposedly grants wishes. Each round starts with the bottle in someone’s hand; from there players battle for tricks using a deck of 54 foil effect cards, trying to collect the most tricks possible. The catch is at the end: the player who finishes holding the bottle has their points devoured by the imp, so strategy involves not only winning tricks but also shedding the bottle before the final round.
The "Hot Potato" mechanic makes the bottle change owners after each trick, creating constant tension. At the same time, the game features a score‑and‑reset cycle: after each trick round, points are tallied and the bottle returns to the center, restarting the race. In team modes, two or three players cooperate to decide who holds the bottle and who gathers the tricks, demanding communication and planning.
With art by Maxime Morin, the foil cards look premium, and the two included bottles allow simultaneous games or quick two‑player duels. In 15‑30 minutes the game delivers plenty of action, laughs, and twists, perfect for groups that enjoy fast rounds yet still want tactical depth. The light weight (2.1/5) means beginners catch on quickly, while veterans appreciate the extra layer of team strategy and the "hot potato" tension. If you love card games with tricks and a good cursed‑bottle story, Bottle Imp is an irresistible invitation to play, pass the bottle, and maybe make a wish… before the imp snatches it.
The "Hot Potato" mechanic makes the bottle change owners after each trick, creating constant tension. At the same time, the game features a score‑and‑reset cycle: after each trick round, points are tallied and the bottle returns to the center, restarting the race. In team modes, two or three players cooperate to decide who holds the bottle and who gathers the tricks, demanding communication and planning.
With art by Maxime Morin, the foil cards look premium, and the two included bottles allow simultaneous games or quick two‑player duels. In 15‑30 minutes the game delivers plenty of action, laughs, and twists, perfect for groups that enjoy fast rounds yet still want tactical depth. The light weight (2.1/5) means beginners catch on quickly, while veterans appreciate the extra layer of team strategy and the "hot potato" tension. If you love card games with tricks and a good cursed‑bottle story, Bottle Imp is an irresistible invitation to play, pass the bottle, and maybe make a wish… before the imp snatches it.
GALLERY
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In English
2
OK
3
BEST
4
BEST
5
OK
6
OK
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Mechanics
Categories
Publisher
Grail Games, Matagot, 2Tomatoes Games, 4GAMES, Hobby Japan
Designer
Günter Cornett
Artist
Maxime Morin
How many players can join?
2 to 6 players, with specific modes for 2‑4 and a variant for 5‑6.
How long does a game take?
Typically 15‑30 minutes, depending on player count and rule familiarity.
What is the game's complexity?
Light (weight 2.1/5); simple trick‑taking rules with strategic bottle management.
What components are included?
54 foil effect cards, two plastic bottles, scoring markers, and a concise rulebook.
Who is the game best suited for?
Groups that enjoy quick card games, trick‑taking fans, and anyone attracted to a literary‑themed curse.