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rating
Ludopedia
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rating
BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
JRPG fans and tactics lovers rejoice! A card game where positioning and timing trump raw damage.
Highlights
- Dynamic initiative reshapes every round
- Epic cinematic BREAK ARTS
- Campaign with persistent progression
- Scales from 1 to 8 players
Keep in mind
- Steep learning curve
- Long sessions in campaign mode
- Fragile components need care
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Initiative Break is a tactical combat card game bursting with JRPG inspiration. Each duel is a strategic ballet where timing matters as much as your attacks. The Dynamic Initiative system reshuffles turn order with every action — moving forward or backward in the queue can flip the game. Your characters unlock elemental abilities, apply status effects, and build Charge for devastating BREAK ARTS, those cinematic attacks that interrupt battle flow (hence the name!). Play with 1-8 players in competitive, cooperative, or solo vs AI modes, with a progressive campaign full of upgrades, persistent injuries, and narrative choices. Face everything from basic aberrations to multi-phase threats requiring teamwork and constant adaptation. Want more than your 'average card game'? Here, every match is an action movie you direct.
Best player count
BGG community vote
1
OK
2
OK
3
OK
4
OK
5
OK
6
OK
7
OK
8
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Where to Buy
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
(Self-Published)
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Can you play solo?
Yes! Solo mode features AI-controlled enemies, adjustable challenges, and even a full campaign.
How does competitive differ?
In PvP you eliminate others' characters. In coop, you survive scenarios against the game.
How many cards included?
Base game has ~300 cards: characters, enemies, abilities, and battlefield conditions.
Does it need much space?
Each player needs action queue area. With 8 players, a large table is essential.
Are expansions planned?
Designers announced packs with new characters/enemies, but base game is complete.