# Exploding Kittens: Duels

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2024
- **BGG Rating**: 6.1
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2
- **Duration**: 10 min
- **Weight**: —
- **Designers**: Elan Lee, Matthew Inman, Shane Small
- **Artists**: Elan Lee, Matthew Inman, Shane Small
- **Publishers**: Exploding Kittens
- **Categories**: Animals, Card Game, Comic Book / Strip, Humor
- **Mechanics**: Hand Management, Hot Potato, Push Your Luck, Set Collection, Take That

## Verdict
If you love fast, laugh‑filled duels, Exploding Kittens: Duels is the perfect two‑player pick.Ultra‑quick paceIrreverent humorDirect player interactionTournament mode includedNo multiplayer modeHigh luck factorSome cards feel repetitiveHIGHLY RECOMMENDED

## Description
Exploding Kittens: Duels brings the notorious kitten chaos to a dedicated two‑player showdown. Each game starts with both players dealt a hand containing a few "defuse" cards and a variety of action cards. On your turn you may play cards to skip your own draw, peek at the top of the deck, or force your opponent to draw instead. After using abilities you draw a card; if it’s an Exploding Kitten you explode and lose—unless you have a defuse, which can be a laser, a belly rub, or other goofy item. The game blends hand management, hot‑potato risk (the looming explosive card) and set collection of cards that grant bonuses. The pace is brisk, about ten minutes, and the match is packed with bluffing, sudden swaps, and plenty of laughs. Visuals keep the comic‑strip style and humor of the franchise, with bright art and snarky text. Although designed for two only, the experience feels as tense as an eight‑player tournament thanks to the included Battle Brackets mode, which lets you run a series of duels. Perfect for fans of light, interactive, humorous games who also enjoy a bit of risk‑taking. If you’ve played the original Exploding Kittens, you’ll recognize the core mechanic, but here everything revolves around the duel, making each round more strategic and less chaotic. It’s an excellent filler for short evenings, parties, or quick gaming sessions with friends.

## FAQ
### How many players can play?
Exactly 2 players; it’s a dedicated duel.

### How long does a game take?
About 10 minutes per round, perfect for quick sessions.

### What is the complexity level?
Very light; the rules are straightforward and easy to pick up.

### What components are included?
Action cards, Exploding Kitten cards, Defuse cards, and 20 Battle Brackets for tournament play.

### Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, though the humor leans toward teens and adults.

### Can I play with more than two people?
No, the core game is for two, but the Battle Brackets mode lets you run a series of duels with multiple opponents.

### Do I need any expansions to play?
No, everything needed is in the base box.