Fiasco

Fiasco Games Company · Board game · 2003
8.4 Ludopedia 6.9 BGG 2–6 · best 4 15 min Weight 1.2/5
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8.4 rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Fiasco is that card game that takes you by surprise: easy to learn, but with a strategic depth that makes you want to play again and again. If you enjoy a mental challenge disguised as a simple game, with a charming historical theme and a touch of risk, this one's for you. The experience is a constant struggle between the ambition to score and the danger of being penalized, creating moments of tension and tough decisions every round.

Highlights
  • Easy to learn, hard to master
  • Engaging Renaissance theme
  • Risk and reward strategy
  • Constant player interaction
  • High replayability
Keep in mind
  • Might frustrate beginners
  • Requires attention to cards
  • Luck can influence outcomes
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready for a trip back in time with Fiasco, a card game that presents itself as a recently discovered gem from the Italian Renaissance, around the late 1450s. Fiasco's unique twist lies in its six suits, each symbolizing power and wealth, and the prominent presence of the legendary character who gives the game its name. While the basic rules are easy to grasp, mastering Fiasco is a challenge that will test even the most seasoned card players. First, you pick your favorite suit, which can be horses, swords, mandolins, roses, books, or treasure chests. The goal is simple: collect as many as you can! Play high cards to win the 'trick' and accumulate points. But here's the tricky part: every time you play a high card, your opponents get the chance to hit you with dreaded Fiasco penalty cards. If you want to avoid the penalties, you can play low, but then you risk losing the opportunity to score points. It's a delicate balance between the ambition to win and the fear of a resounding failure!

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 BEST
5 OK
6 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Categories

Publisher Fiasco Games Company
Designer David Pubrat

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

755owners
155wishlist
16want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can play Fiasco?
Fiasco is suitable for 2 to 6 players, making it quite versatile for different group sizes.
What is the average playtime for Fiasco?
A game of Fiasco is quite quick, usually taking between 15 and 30 minutes. Perfect for filling gaps between longer games or for multiple rounds.
Is Fiasco a complex game?
While the basic rules are easy to learn, Fiasco has a strategic depth that makes it challenging to master. Its BGG weight of 1.2/5 indicates it's light in terms of rule complexity.
What are the main components of the game?
Fiasco is a card game, so the main component is a special deck with its six thematic suits and the Fiasco penalty cards.
Who is Fiasco recommended for?
It's recommended for players who enjoy trick-taking card games with risk-and-reward strategy and a fun historical theme. Players looking for a tactical challenge in an accessible format will really enjoy it.
Are there any expansions for Fiasco?
The provided information does not mention any expansions for Fiasco, suggesting it is a complete game on its own.

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