Shamans

Studio H, Arrakis Games, Banana Games · Board game · 2021

8.0 Ludopedia 6.8 BGG 3–5 · best 4 30–60 min Weight 2.0/5

Buy · from US$ 21.18

8.0 rating Ludopedia

6.8 rating BGG

Buy · from US$ 21.18

Our Verdict

RECOMMENDED

Shamans is a card game blending deduction and strategy with a touch of mystery and hidden roles. If you enjoy figuring out who's on your side and who isn't, while playing cards smartly, you'll have a blast!

Highlights

Clever blend of mechanics
Tension with hidden roles
Original card mechanic
Fast-paced and engaging

Keep in mind

Can be confusing initially
Relies on table reading
Less impact with fewer players

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About the game

What you do in a play session

In Shamans, players team up to save the world from encroaching Shadows threatening its harmony. The core twist is that you must pick a side, and the game cleverly blends hidden roles, competitive play, and an original card-playing mechanic. Each card played not only helps stabilize the spirit world and perform rituals but can also grant you artifacts. These actions bring you closer to the ultimate showdown between the Shadows and the Shamans. Ultimately, the victor will be the one who best reads their rivals and sticks to the right side in this unending confrontation. It's a game that demands attention, strategy, and a good dose of table reading to emerge victorious. If you enjoy games with a blend of deduction and card strategy, Shamans might be the right pick for your table.

Gallery

Box and component photos

11 photos · from the community

01 / 11

Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

In English

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–5 players

3 REC

4 BEST

5 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher Studio H, Arrakis Games, Banana Games, Corax Games, GaGa Games, Geronimo Games, Ghenos Games, Hobby Japan, TLAMA games

Designer Cédrick Chaboussit

Artist Maud Chalmel

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

5,030owners

984wishlist

104want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions

How many players does Shamans support and what's the playtime?

Shamans is for 3 to 5 players and typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete a game.

What's the complexity of Shamans? Is it hard to learn?

The game has a light to medium weight (2.02/5 on BGG), making it accessible to most players. The basic rules are straightforward, but strategic depth comes with experience.

Do I need to know English to play Shamans?

No! The game has very little text on the cards, and the rules are quite visual, making it fully playable without language dependency.

What is the main objective of the game?

The goal is to help your team win the final confrontation against the Shadows by figuring out who your allies and enemies are, while managing your cards and performing strategic actions.

Who is Shamans most recommended for?

It's ideal for those who enjoy card games with deduction, secret roles, and a bit of bluffing. It also appeals to fans of fantasy themes and games that don't overstay their welcome.

What happens if I play with fewer than 5 players?

The game still works well with 3 or 4 players, but the dynamic and tension of the hidden roles might be slightly different. The most complete experience is usually with 5 players.

Are there any expansions for Shamans?

As of now, there are no official expansions released for Shamans that significantly alter the rules or add components.