砂時計は裏返す (Flip the Hourglass)

砂時計は裏返す (Flip the Hourglass)

Yuno Channel (遊飲チャンネル) · Board game · 2026
— Ludopedia — BGG 2–4 10 min
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Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Flip the Hourglass is a breath of fresh air in the trick-taking genre, featuring an inversion mechanic that keeps the adrenaline pumping. It is perfect for those who enjoy fast-paced games that require quick thinking and constant adaptation. The experience is chaotic in the best way, where your plans must remain fluid to survive the hourglass flips. If you enjoy card games that challenge your intuition, you will have a blast with this one.

Highlights
  • Highly original card inversion mechanic
  • Extremely fast and dynamic gameplay
  • High replayability due to unpredictability
  • Very easy to teach new players
Keep in mind
  • Can be frustrating for control-freaks
  • Requires constant focus on game state
  • Limited time for deep long-term planning
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you enjoy trick-taking games but are tired of the usual predictability, Flip the Hourglass is here to mess with your head in the best way possible. The premise is simple: time flows like sand in an hourglass, and with it, the value of your cards changes drastically. You know that high-value card you were saving for the final strike? Well, it might just become your worst nightmare halfway through the game. The game introduces a mechanic where the numerical strength of cards reverses as the play progresses. It is a constant exercise in adaptation and reading the table. You start thinking you have control, but suddenly, the game flips, and what was weak becomes gold. The experience is fast, tense, and requires you to keep an eye not just on your hand, but on how the flow of the game is shifting the power hierarchy. It is a treat for those who enjoy card games that don't rely solely on luck, but on a good dose of strategic anticipation. Every round, the tension rises, as you never know exactly when the hourglass will turn and change the rules in your favor or against you. With super quick playtimes, it is the kind of game you bring to the table to start or end the night, keeping everyone engaged and laughing at the unexpected twists. It is a clever design that refreshes the trick-taking genre, adding an extra layer of depth without complicating the rules. If you are looking for something easy to learn but with a special 'spice' of strategy, this title is a perfect addition to your collection. Get ready to watch your plans crumble and rebuild in seconds while you try to master this crazy hourglass.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Categories

Publisher Yuno Channel (遊飲チャンネル)
Designer Fei (フェイ)

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Is the game difficult to learn?
Not at all! The trick-taking rules are intuitive, and the inversion mechanic is explained quickly during your first round.
How long does a game take?
It is very fast, taking about 10 minutes. Perfect for a casual gaming session.
How many players can play?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players and works great in any of those configurations.
Does it require a lot of table space?
No, as it is a compact card game, you can play it on almost any surface.
Is there a lot of luck involved?
There is the luck of the draw, but your ability to adapt to the value inversions is what really determines the winner.

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