Cunning Folk

Button Shy, KOZAK Games · Board game · 2015
2–4 · best 3 15 min Weight 1.1/5
rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Who will enjoy: players who love quick bluffing and deduction in micro games.

Highlights
  • Fun and fast
  • Bluff challenge
  • Calculated risk
  • Intense micro experience
Keep in mind
  • Can be frustrating
  • Requires focus
  • Hard competition
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In Cunning Folk, players take on the role of townsfolk in Ipswich, a city that has been the battleground for rival witch covens for years. The mission is simple, yet deceptively tricky: enter each house, uncover who’s who, and, if necessary, bluff the others to protect your own reputation. Each player is dealt a card representing a character with a unique ability, but the twist is you can lie about which character you’re playing. If someone suspects you, they can call a bluff, and if you’re caught, you’re eliminated. A second mistake and the town no longer trusts you. The challenge lies in balancing honesty with strategic deception, using memory of previously seen cards to craft convincing stories. The game is incredibly short—about 15 minutes—and accommodates 2‑4 players, making it perfect for a quick coffee break or a nightcap with something different. Components are minimal: a deck of cards, a suspicion marker, and a few tokens to indicate who’s been exposed. The player‑elimination mechanic adds tension, as each bluff can cost you your spot in the game. If you enjoy games that demand quick thinking, calculated bluffing, and a dash of luck, Cunning Folk is a choice that will make you laugh and think at the same time.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
4 BEST
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Game details

Families

Containers: Wallets Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Series: Pocket Games series (Kozak Games) Series: Wallet & Box Micro Games (Button Shy)
Publisher Button Shy, KOZAK Games
Designer Jay E. Treat, III
Artist Fabrice Weiss, Sofia Muzychka
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play Cunning Folk?
The game accommodates 2 to 4 players, making it ideal for small groups.
How long does a game last?
Each session takes about 15 minutes, perfect for quick play sessions.
What is the complexity level?
The mechanics are simple, but require focus on bluffing and remembering seen cards.
What components are needed?
A deck of cards, a suspicion marker, and tokens to indicate who has been exposed.
Who is this game for?
It’s for players who enjoy bluffing, deduction, and a touch of luck in short games.
How does bluffing work?
You can lie about which card you’re playing; if someone calls your bluff, you may be eliminated.
Is there a recommended strategy?
Use memory of previously seen cards to craft convincing stories and avoid bluffing too much to stay safe.