7.3
rating
Ludopedia
6.3
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
Looking for a quick card game packed with bluffing and brain-teasing moments? Kobayakawa is the perfect pick for those who enjoy casino-style tension without the hassle.
Highlights
- Sharp bluffing and deduction
- Fast-paced, dynamic rounds
- Simple rules, tactical depth
Keep in mind
- Luck of the draw matters
- Tense interaction for some
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Kobayakawa is one of those games that tricks you with its simplicity. At first glance, it seems like a quick and easy card game with very few components: a small deck, some tokens, and a marker. But don't be fooled, your brain will be working hard here! Each round, you receive a secret card and have the option to draw a new one or swap the central "Kobayakawa" card, which can change everything. Then, players decide whether to enter the fray by betting tokens. Whoever has the lowest card can add the Kobayakawa's value to theirs, while the highest sums everything up. It's a battle of nerves where the stakes are high and bluffing is key. Will you try to guess others' cards from their expressions or the cards they discard? The feeling of being in a casino is strong, with tokens as your money and tension rising each round. And the best part: a game lasts only about 15 minutes, perfect for filling those little gaps in your day or for multiple consecutive matches. With up to 6 players, it guarantees fun for family and friends, regardless of experience level.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
3
REC
4
REC
5
BEST
6
BEST
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
Oink Games, El Dragón Azul, GoKids 玩樂小子, Heidelberger Spieleverlag, IELLO, Pensamento Coletivo, Superlude Éditions
Designer
Jun Sasaki
Artist
Biboun, Jun Sasaki
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
What is the average playtime for Kobayakawa?
A game of Kobayakawa takes about 15 minutes, making it super quick to play.
How many players can participate?
The game is for 3 to 6 players, which makes it great for groups.
Is Kobayakawa a difficult game to learn?
The rules are quite simple, but the strategy involves a lot of bluffing and deduction, which can be a fun challenge.
What are the main components of the game?
The game comes with a small deck of cards, tokens for betting, and a first player marker. Very minimalist!
Who would you recommend Kobayakawa for?
We recommend it for those who enjoy card games with betting and bluffing elements, looking for quick games with good player interaction.
Do you need board game experience to play Kobayakawa?
Not necessarily! The rules are accessible for beginners, but the bluffing and deduction dynamics also appeal to more experienced players.
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