Pico

Doris & Frank · Board game · 1996
— Ludopedia 5.8 BGG 2–3 · best 2 10 min Weight 1.2/5
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— rating Ludopedia
5.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Those who love a quick, sharp game will enjoy Pico.

Highlights
  • Immediate play
  • Opponent reading
  • Intense pace
Keep in mind
  • Short time
  • Low complexity
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Pico is that card game that looks simple but is actually a real test of strategy and reading your opponents. You start with a very small deck, just 11 cards, but each one plays a crucial role. Hand management requires you to decide before each turn which cards are worth using. Simultaneous action selection adds that thrilling tension: everyone chooses at the same time, only revealing their choices later. The rule that the winning card only wins if it isn’t more than twice the opponent’s card adds a nice twist, because sometimes it’s better to play a lower card than risk losing everything. The game lasts only 10 minutes, but the pace is intense, almost like a poker mini‑game. Scoring is simple: the winning card scores points, the losing one returns to its owner’s hand. What makes Pico even more interesting is the different card distribution between the original version and Pico 2, which brings values from 4 to 13 and 16, offering a slightly different balance. For those who enjoy quick games that still demand strategic thinking and opponent reading, Pico is a solid pick. If you like card games with hand‑management and simultaneous action mechanics, you’ll fit right in. Just don’t expect high complexity; it’s more for those who want something fast and sharp.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–3 players
2 BEST
3 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Publisher Doris & Frank
Designer Doris Matthäus, Frank Nestel
Artist Doris Matthäus

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

169owners
25wishlist
9want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime?
About 10 minutes, great for a quick session.
How many players can play?
Best with 2-3 players, but 4 can join for extra challenge.
Is the game complex?
No, it's simple but requires focus and strategy to win.
What components does the game include?
A deck of 11 cards, score markers, and a small board to track points.
Who is Pico recommended for?
Fans of quick card games with hand management and simultaneous action.
What’s the difference between Pico and Pico 2?
Pico 2 has a different card range, 4-13 and 16, giving a slightly different balance.

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