Cycle Tricks

Cycle Tricks

Ryusei Games · Board game · 2026
— Ludopedia — BGG 2 10 min
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Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Cycle Tricks is an incredibly clever trick-taking duel where card values are constantly shifting. The hierarchy inversion mechanic and the reverse scoring system create delightful tension in every single round. It's perfect for those seeking a fast, strategic game that demands constant opponent reading. A little gem for pairs who love card games with real depth.

Highlights
  • Very creative inversion mechanic
  • Reverse scoring creates tactical dilemmas
  • Fast and intense gameplay
  • Highly strategic for two
Keep in mind
  • Can be frustrating for beginners
  • Requires constant focus throughout
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you enjoy trick-taking games and love constant twists, Cycle Tricks is an experience that will keep you on your toes. It is a two-player exclusive game where card hierarchy is anything but fixed. You know that moment when you think you have the winning card in hand? Well, here the game can turn against you in the blink of an eye. The system works with three suits following a rock-paper-scissors logic, creating a cycle of superiority that never stops. Furthermore, the numerical hierarchy can flip from ascending to descending, completely changing the value of the cards you still hold. The real kicker is that by playing a zero, you gain the power to reverse that hierarchy after the trick, messing up your opponent's plans. The goal isn't just to win tricks, but to manage which ones you actually want to take. This is because, curiously, high numbers give negative points, while low numbers are the ones that guarantee victory. Over twelve intense rounds, you must anticipate your opponent's reversals, manage your hand carefully, and decide if it's worth winning a round or if it's better to let the other player take the 'gift' of negative points. It's a fast, tense game that requires sharp reasoning, perfect for those seeking a cerebral challenge in short sessions. The 'should I win this trick' dynamic brings surprising strategic depth to such a compact card game. If you like dueling games where reading your opponent is everything and rules can be manipulated to your advantage, Cycle Tricks will earn a permanent spot on your table. Get ready to turn the table, literally, on card hierarchy and show who dominates the cycle.

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 OK

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Categories

Families

Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Ryusei Games
Designer Ryusei Nakata

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How many players can play?
The game is exclusively for 2 players, acting as a direct duel.
How long does a game take?
Matches are very quick, lasting about 10 minutes on average.
What is the main goal?
To collect low cards for positive points and avoid high cards, which provide negative points.
How does the hierarchy inversion work?
By playing a zero, you can swap the strength order of the cards (ascending or descending) for the next trick.
Is the game hard to learn?
The rules are easy to pick up, but mastering the strategy of when to win or lose a trick takes practice.