Owl About

In Owl About, lazy owls compete in a trick‑taking game where the goal is to avoid becoming the tribal leader. The deck has no suits; cards range from 1 to 10, each appearing two to four times, and a few have “night” versions that add a touch of mystery. When a round starts, the leader must play the highest card possible, but if they can’t, they may play a card equal to or higher than the one already in play. The trick goes to the player who played the highest‑valued card, unless a special effect changes the rule.

Each card carries a unique effect, but only the winner’s effect activates. Effects include reversing the order of the next trick (so the lowest card wins), passing leadership to another player, or handing a won trick to someone who didn’t play it. The lower‑valued cards also have “surprise” tricks: if they appear alongside higher‑valued cards, they earn extra points. At the end of each hand, the player who collected the most trophies scores points equal to the trophy count, while the others receive the difference between the maximum and their own totals. Play continues until a player reaches the predetermined victory point total; the player with the fewest points wins, because the aim is to avoid accumulating trophies.

The game is fast‑paced, with 15‑to‑30‑minute sessions ideal for 3‑to‑6 players. The artwork is playful, featuring owls in relaxed poses that reinforce the “don’t want to work” vibe. While the theme is lighthearted, the trick‑taking mechanic demands attention and strategy to decide when to deploy each card. If you enjoy simple card games with unexpected twists, Owl About could be the next title that will have you laughing and thinking at the same time.