Herbaceous

Dr. Finn's Games, Pencil First Games, LLC, 17wanzy (Yihu BG) · Board game · 2017
1–4 · best 4 Solo 15–20 min Weight 1.2/5
7.4 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Buy
7.4 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love quick card games with a dash of strategy, Herbaceous will delight you with its push-your-luck and set-collection mechanics.

Highlights
  • Fast and fun
  • Push-your-luck mechanic
  • Set-collection gameplay
  • Solo option available
  • Gardening theme
Keep in mind
  • Short time limit
  • Risk decision required
  • Simple rules
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Herbaceous is a quick and fun card game that pits herb collectors against each other to build the most valuable collection in just 15 to 20 minutes. Each player starts with four paper containers, each allowing a unique way to group cards: same-type groups, different-type groups, pairs, and any trio of three types. On each turn, you draw an herb card and decide whether to keep it in your personal collection or place it on the communal pile; the next card then follows the opposite route. At the start of your turn, you may choose to use a container, gathering cards from your collection and the communal pile, grouping them according to the container’s rule, and turning them face-down – this marks the end of your opportunity to use that container. The game ends when all cards have been collected, and the final score combines the value of cards in your collection, matching herbs, and the formation of complete sets. Herbaceous blends the simplicity of a card game with the tension of deciding when to risk (push your luck) and the gratification of building sets (set collection). It’s perfect for those who enjoy short, light-strategy games with pleasant themes like gardening and nature, and it even offers a solo variant for testing your skills against yourself. As a Print & Play, you can print, cut, and assemble it at home without buying extra components, making it accessible and sustainable.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

12 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 REC
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Game: Herbaceous Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Theme: Gardening Theme: Nature Versions & Editions: Travel Versions of Non-Travel Games
Publisher Dr. Finn's Games, Pencil First Games, LLC, 17wanzy (Yihu BG), 64 Ounce Games, Arclight Games, Granna, Little Rocket Games, Maldito Games, Matagot, Quality Beast
Designer Eduardo Baraf, Steve Finn
Artist Beth Sobel

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play?
Herbaceous supports 1 to 4 players.
How long does a game last?
A typical game takes between 15 and 20 minutes.
What is the complexity level?
It’s a simple game, great for beginners and quick sessions.
What components are included?
52 herb cards, 4 paper containers, rulebook, and optional solo rules.
Who is this game for?
For those who enjoy light card games, collecting, and gardening themes.
Is there a solo version?
Yes, there are solo rules to play alone.
Do I need to buy components?
No, it’s a Print & Play; just print and assemble at home.

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