Savana

Djeco · Board game · 2018
2–4 · best 2, 3, 4 15–20 min Weight 2.0/5
rating Ludopedia
6.2 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict

A fast and risky card game, perfect for trick-taking fans!

Highlights
  • Dynamic and highly portable
  • Quick to learn
  • Constant risk of negative points
  • Great for travel
Keep in mind
  • Can be frustrating for beginners
  • Very short for long sessions
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About the game
Know that game you can slip into your pocket and still spark a heated debate during lunch? Savana is exactly that! We're talking about a classic trick-taking card game, but with a risky twist that can change everything. The goal is simple: win the cards that grant points. The problem? Not every card is your friend. The deck consists of four animal families: elephants, lions, hyenas, and zebras, each with 12 cards numbered 1 to 12. Here's the kicker: some cards feature green stars, which are your victory points, while others carry red stars—negative points that you definitely don't want in your hand at the end of the game. Zebras are the unpredictable element of the savanna; they don't have stars, but some possess special rules that can disrupt anyone's strategy. The gameplay follows the traditional logic of following suit or playing a zebra if you can't lead or match the suit. In case of a tie in card value, the zebra family always wins the trick. It's a game of constant reading: you need to try to guess what your opponents are holding to avoid picking up those negative point cards. It's fast, frantic, and perfect for those who want a challenge of logic and luck without wasting too much time. With only 15 to 20 minutes per session, it's the ideal pastime for anywhere, ensuring the fun never stops, whether you're traveling or taking a quick break between larger games. If you enjoy fast-paced card games where every move can be the difference between glory and disaster, get ready to explore the savanna!
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Game details

Mechanics

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Publisher Djeco
Designer Yann Dupont
Artist Frédéric Pillot
Community
73 owners
0 wishlist
0 played
73 interactions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a game last?
It's super fast! Usually between 15 and 20 minutes.
What is the recommended age?
Kids aged 8 or 9 and up can play it well.
Is it hard to learn?
Not at all! If you know the basics of trick-taking games, you're ready in seconds.
How many players can play?
2 to 4 players will have a blast.
Is the game complex?
The weight is low (2/5), so it's a light and straightforward game.