No Thanks!

AMIGO, 999 Games, asmodee · Board game · 2004
3–7 · best 5 20 min Weight 1.1/5
7.7 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
7.7 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're looking for a quick, clever card game that's easy to learn but offers surprising depth, No Thanks! is a fantastic choice for game nights with friends and family.

Highlights
  • Simple rules, deep strategic decisions
  • Engaging push-your-luck mechanics
  • Excellent player interaction and bluffing
  • Quick playtime, high replayability
Keep in mind
  • Luck of the draw can be significant
  • May not appeal to heavy strategy fans
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
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About the game
Get ready for a rollercoaster of quick decisions and subtle bluffs with No Thanks!, a card game that proves simplicity and depth can go hand in hand. The premise is super easy to grasp: each turn, you have two options: either pay one of your chips to avoid taking the face-up card, or you take the card (along with all the chips already placed on it) and flip over the next one. Sounds simple, right? But the magic happens when it's time to decide, because the goal is to end the game with the lowest possible score. The cards are numbered from 3 to 35, and each card's value is its score. The trick is that sequences of two or more cards only count as the lowest card's value in the sequence. For example, if you have 10, 11, and 12, it only counts as 10 points! But be careful: nine cards are removed from the deck before starting, so don't count on finding that card that completes your sequence. Each chip you have is worth -1 point at the end, but they are much more valuable when they save you from taking an unwanted high card. Originally released in Germany in 2004 as "Geschenkt ...ist noch zu teuer!" (meaning "Even given as a gift, it's still too expensive!"), the game quickly gained fans worldwide. Early editions supported up to five players, but the 2011 version already allows up to seven, adding more chips for the crowd. It's one of those games you learn in two minutes but spend hours refining your strategy of when to say "no thanks!" and when to risk taking a card.
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — No Thanks! English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 REC
7 REC
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Categories

Families

Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: BrettspielWelt Magenta (CMYK) Misc: Dice Tower Hall of Fame Misc: Lowest Score Wins Series: Beveled Boxes (Gigamic)
Publisher AMIGO, 999 Games, asmodee, Boardgame Space, Broadway Toys LTD, CMYK
Designer Thorsten Gimmler
Artist Atelier Löwentor, Dennis Lohausen, Oliver Freudenreich, SMLXL, Zongoh
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play No Thanks!?
The game is ideal for 3 to 7 players, making it super versatile for different group sizes.
What is the average game duration?
A game of No Thanks! is quick, usually between 15 and 20 minutes. Perfect for multiple rounds!
What is the complexity of the game?
It's very light, with a BGG complexity of 1.1299/5. The rules are learned in minutes, but the decisions are always interesting.
What comes in the game box?
Basically, numbered cards from 3 to 35 and chips. It's a game with few components, making it easy to take anywhere.
Who is No Thanks! for?
It's great for anyone looking for a fun filler, card games with direct interaction, or for introducing new players to the hobby. If you enjoy a good bluff and wisely managing your resources (chips), you'll love it!
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective is simple: end the game with the lowest possible score. This means avoiding high-value cards and trying to complete sequences to minimize your negative points.