Shallow Regrets

Shallow Regrets is a nautical horror card game that fits into 15 minutes and brings together 2 to 3 players. The goal is to capture strange and valuable fish, but each fish has a strength value that requires you to have enough hooks in your boat. You start with an open pool of fishing cards and, on each turn, reel in two cards from one of the available shoals. After choosing one to keep, the other returns to the shoal, creating an open draft cycle that keeps tension high. Each fish has unique abilities that can be used only once per game; turning the fish to the side indicates that the ability has been consumed. When the round ends, players sum the total value of their fish. However, some fish are considered “bad” and whoever captures more of them receives a scoring penalty. This “take that” mechanic forces players to balance risk and reward, as capturing a powerful fish can cost dearly if the fish is bad. The combination of open drafting, set collection, and push your luck creates a fast yet strategic experience that reminds one of classic card games like 7 Wonders or Fluxx, but with a horror-at-the-ocean edge atmosphere. As a print & play, the game can be printed at home, making it accessible for those who like to experiment with new ideas without buying expensive components. In short, Shallow Regrets offers a mix of tension, strategy, and dark humor in a compact, portable format.