Odin

Helvetiq, asmodee, Buró · Board game · 2024
2–6 · best 4 15 min Weight 1.2/5
7.7 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
7.7 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Odin is a climbing card game that will appeal to those looking for speed and strategy in a small, fun package, perfect for taking anywhere.

Highlights
  • Fast and dynamic
  • Simple rules, easy to learn
  • Surprisingly strategic
  • Portable and accessible
  • Direct player interaction
Keep in mind
  • Can have some luck dependency
  • Theme feels a bit generic
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In Odin, your goal is to be the first to empty your hand, sending your Vikings out into the world! The game unfolds over several hands, and each hand can consist of multiple rounds. The deck contains cards in six suits, each numbered 1-9, and every player starts with a hand of nine cards. The lead player for the hand lays a single card on the table. The next player either passes (but can play on a future turn) or plays the same number of cards (or one more than that number) with a higher value. When you play two or more cards, they must be the same number or color, and their value is determined by arranging the digits from high to low. For instance, if you play a blue 3 and a blue 6, their value is 63, not 36. When you play cards and are not the lead, you must take one of the cards from the previous play into your hand, then discard the rest. Play continues around the table until either a player runs out of cards, which immediately ends the round, or all players have passed in succession. In the latter case, the last played cards are discarded, and whoever played them starts a new round with a single card. Alternatively, if the lead player has cards of a single suit or number in hand, they can play all of these cards at once to end the hand. When a hand ends, each player scores 1 point for each card they still hold. If no player has at least 15 points, the deck is shuffled, and a new hand begins. If someone does have 15 or more points, the player with the fewest points wins the game. A fast-paced, strategic, and super accessible climbing game!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
6 REC
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Game details

Mechanics

Categories

Families

Card Games: Climbing Card Games: Shedding / Stops Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: Game Park Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Misc: Lowest Score Wins Mythology: Norse Series: Pocket Games (Helvetiq) Theme: Vikings
Publisher Helvetiq, asmodee, Buró, Dal Negro, Fractal Juegos, Gap Times, HRAS, Îlot 307, IUVI Games, Lifestyle Boardgames Ltd, MIPL, PaperGames (III), Reflexshop, SNAK, Sugorokuya
Designer Gary Kim, Hope S. Hwang, Yohan Goh
Artist Crocotame
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Odin easy to learn for someone new to board games?
Absolutely! Odin's rules are super simple and intuitive, making it an excellent gateway game for newcomers. You'll pick it up quickly and be strategizing in no time.
What is the average playtime for a game of Odin?
Games of Odin are quite fast, typically lasting between 15 and 15 minutes. It's perfect for playing multiple hands in a row or fitting into any spare moment.
How many players can participate in a game of Odin?
Odin is a versatile game that can be played by 2 to 6 players, making it great for different group sizes, from a duel to a full table of friends.
Does the game rely heavily on luck or strategy?
While there's an element of luck in drawing cards, Odin is predominantly strategic. You'll need to make smart decisions about which cards to play and when, aiming to get rid of your hand most effectively.
What are the main components of the game?
Odin is a compact card game. It comes with a deck of numbered cards in different suits, which are the only components needed for fun.
Is there a variant for 2 players?
Yes! Ludopedia mentions a simple adaptation for pairs or couples, which makes the game even faster and more intense for two players.
Is Odin a good game to take on trips?
Absolutely! Being a card game with a small box, it's part of Helvetiq's 'Pocket Games' line, making it ideal to take anywhere and play whenever you want.