LOOP

BrainBrainGames, Mandoo Games · Board game · 2023
2–4 · best 4 15 min Weight 1.5/5
8.5 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Buy
8.5 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict

LOOP is a fast card game full of twists that will make you laugh and think at the same time.

Highlights
  • Fast combos
  • Fun revolution
  • Strategic scoring
  • Short play
Keep in mind
  • Rules a bit confusing
  • Requires focus
  • Memory needed
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Picture a deck with three suits, each holding cards numbered 1 to 15, and each player starting with 11 cards in hand. You pick two cards to set aside face‑down, like a little secret. The lead player opens the first trick by playing a single card, a pair of the same number, or a run of consecutive cards of the same suit. The following players, in turn, must respond with a higher matching combination or pass. But don’t panic if you pass: you can re‑enter the trick later if the chance arises.

What makes LOOP special is that all played cards stay in front of the player who played them, creating a visual layer of strategy. If someone plays an 8, whether solo or in a combo, everyone else must pass, and then that player leads a new trick. The 8 can also be used as a “donden” (revolution): by revealing the 8, the values invert, so 1s become the highest cards and 15s the lowest, changing the whole game.

When a player runs out of cards, they score points based on how many players still have cards in hand. The game continues until only one player remains with cards. That last player then takes over another player’s seat, depending on the number of participants: in a two‑player game, they occupy the first position; in three, the second; in four, they can choose between the first or second while the third takes the other spot. After moving, they pick up the 11 cards that were in front of them, discard two, and restart the round.

The ultimate goal is to accumulate enough points to reach the victory threshold, which varies with the number of players. The ladder‑climbing and hand‑management mechanics combine short‑term tactical choices with long‑term planning, while the revolution adds a surprise element that can flip the game in a few turns. If you enjoy quick card games with tactical decisions and a dash of unpredictability, LOOP delivers a vibrant experience full of twists.

The game is ideal for those looking for roughly 15‑minute sessions with 2 to 4 players, and who appreciate a mix of simple combinations, card runs, and the possibility of a “revolution” that changes the deck’s dynamics. It’s perfect for groups wanting something lighter than complex strategy games but still demanding attention and good memory.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
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Game details

Categories

Families

Card Games: Shedding / Stops Mechanism: Campaign Games
Publisher BrainBrainGames, Mandoo Games
Designer Takashi Saito
Artist QURAGE
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
2 to 4 players. The game works well with two people but gains more dynamics with three or four.
How long does a game last?
Each game lasts about 15 minutes, perfect for a quick and fun session.
What is the difficulty level?
Medium difficulty: it requires focus on combinations and card order, but not much prior experience.
What are the game components?
The game includes three decks of cards numbered 1 to 15, score tokens, and a small board to track player positions.
Who is this game recommended for?
Fans of quick card games, ladder and hand‑management mechanics, and those who enjoy a dash of unpredictability.
"Donden" (revolution) how does it work?
When you reveal an 8 that was set aside, all card values invert: 1 becomes the highest and 15 the lowest, completely changing the strategy.