Satori

ORUCAgames · Board game · 2024
3–4 · best 4 15–30 min
7.8 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Buy
7.8 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love fast card games with a touch of enlightenment, Satori will keep you in trance.

Highlights
  • Trick‑taking with zen theme
  • Cards 1‑12
  • Fixed trumps
  • Enlightenment victory
  • Quick and engaging
Keep in mind
  • Rules can be confusing
  • Limited thematic depth
  • No extra components
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Satori is a 3‑to‑4‑player card game that blends strategy, luck, and a splash of Eastern philosophy. The goal is to achieve enlightenment, which occurs when you manage to play all the cards in your hand in a single trick or when no other player can follow the must‑follow rule. The deck features four suits numbered 1 to 12 and two special cards that don’t belong to any suit. The most intriguing rule is that you can’t start a trick with the enlightenment suit—the fixed trump. If your hand contains only cards from that suit, you are “liberated” from the game and earn a different set of victory points. The scoring system changes depending on whether you’ve reached enlightenment or not, making every game feel fresh. The trick‑taking mechanic is straightforward: the player who plays the highest card of the leading suit wins the trick unless a trump card is played, which beats all other cards. The game lasts 15 to 30 minutes, so you can play several rounds in one evening. It’s a light, yet profound experience where following the suit and managing your hand are essential to out‑enlighten the others. If you enjoy card games that demand rule awareness and are intrigued by a Japanese theme, Satori could be the perfect pick for your game nights.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 BEST
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Game details

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Country: Japan
Publisher ORUCAgames
Designer 外鴨 なきく (Sotogamo Nakiku)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
Satori is designed for 3 or 4 players, but it can be played with 2 if desired.
What is the average game duration?
Between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the players' pace.
What is the complexity level?
Medium: rules are simple, but strategy around following suit and using trumps is crucial.
What components are included?
A 48‑card deck, featuring four suits numbered 1 to 12 and two special cards.
What age is recommended?
12 and up, with supervision for younger children.
Who is this game for?
For those who enjoy quick card games, have an interest in Japanese themes, or seek a game focused on strategy and philosophy.