Holly Oak

Rio Grande Games · Board game · 2023
3–5 · best 5 30–40 min Weight 1.3/5
7.5 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Buy
7.5 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Great for card game enthusiasts and Celtic mythology lovers! Holly Oak's seasonal twists keep gameplay fresh.

Highlights
  • Dynamic trick mechanics that surprise every round!
  • Beautiful art and a story-rich theme.
  • Easy to learn but hard to master.
  • Perfect for 3-5 players.
Keep in mind
  • Needs focus to track seasonal shifts.
  • Not ideal for linear or predictable playstyles.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR FANS OF UNIQUE CARD GAMES
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About the game
Holly Oak is a seasonal card game that blends the whimsy of the year's cycles with Celtic mythology. Three to five players take on the role of revelers seeking favor from the ever-changing Oak and Holly kings. The core mechanic revolves around trick-taking, where the current season shifts mid-game, altering who wins each round. Scoring comes from capturing the kings or avoiding tricks altogether, adding strategic depth. With a 30-40 minute playtime, it's perfect for quick, smart sessions. The game's seasonal theme is visually stunning, and its rules are easy to learn but offer surprising complexity. Great for casual game nights or friends who enjoy clever mechanics without heavy rules. The Celtic lore adds a unique narrative layer, making each playthrough feel like an adventure.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 REC
5 BEST
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Game details

Mechanics

Categories

Families

Mythology: Celtic Theme: Seasons of the year
Publisher Rio Grande Games
Designer Thomas Lehmann
Artist Harald Lieske
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
3-5 players, great for small groups.
How long is a game?
30-40 minutes, perfect for quick sessions.
Is it hard to learn?
Rules are easy, but the seasonal mechanics take some practice.
What are the components?
Themed deck, scoring tokens, and seasonal art.
Who is it for?
For fans of strategic card games with creative themes.
Are there expansions?
No, it's a self-contained game.
Do I need to know Celtic mythology?
No, the theme is explained clearly in the game.