Paper Tales

Catch Up Games, Engames, Evrikus · Board game · 2017
2–5 · best 4 30 min Weight 2.2/5
7.0 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
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7.0 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love fast strategy with hand management; the unit aging system adds a unique twist.

Highlights
  • Dynamic simultaneous drafting
  • Innovative aging mechanic
  • Fast and intense matches
  • Challenging resource management
Keep in mind
  • Requires external translation
  • Initial learning curve
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About the game
Get ready to rule and conquer in Paper Tales, a game where you step into the shoes of a leader attempting to unify rival kingdoms in a fantasy realm. The core experience revolves around time and resource management: you'll assemble your army, erect buildings, and recruit heroes, but there's a cruel twist — your characters age! Yes, the passage of time is a real factor, and after a few rounds, your units retire, forcing you to constantly remodel your strategy.

The heart of the game is the simultaneous drafting. Each turn, everyone chooses five units at the same time. However, it's not just about grabbing the strongest card; you must have the funds to pay for the recruitment. These choices determine whether you'll dominate the battlefield, generate a fortune in income, or build imposing structures to secure legend points. With only four hiring positions available across the four rounds, every slot is highly contested.

The game demands flexibility. What worked in the first century might not serve you in the second. You'll need to adapt the shape of your realm as opportunities arise and restrictions tighten. It's an exercise in long-term planning mixed with the adrenaline of not knowing exactly what your opponents are recruiting. If you enjoy card games with hints of political strategy and hand management, Paper Tales offers a fast-paced yet deep challenge where every decision can write the history of your empire or condemn it to oblivion.
Expansions
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Rules videos

In English

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

Categories

Families

Creatures: Demons Creatures: Dragons Creatures: Monsters Digital Implementations: Google Play Digital Implementations: Steam Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Mechanism: Tableau Building Players: Games with expansions that add solo play Players: Games with expansions that change player count
Publisher Catch Up Games, Engames, Evrikus, Frosted Games, Funiverse, Game Harbor, Mercurio, MS Edizioni, Pegasus Spiele, Stronghold Games
Designer Masato Uesugi
Artist Christine Alcouffe
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a game take?
Matches are quite agile, lasting about 30 minutes, thanks to the simultaneous action selection.
Is it a complex game?
It has a medium weight (2.18 on BGG). It's not overly complex, but it requires strategic planning to manage unit retirement.
How many people can play?
From 2 to 5 players, which makes the drafting dynamics vary significantly depending on the group size.
Do I need a translation to play?
Yes, the language dependency is moderate. You will likely need a translated spreadsheet or cards to fully enjoy it.
Who is this game for?
For those who enjoy fantasy card games, drafting mechanics, and games where the strategy must evolve as time progresses.
What happens when units age?
They retire and leave the game, forcing you to recruit new characters and adapt your realm.