Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
Loved 'The Game' but want something just for you and one other? This face-to-face version is pure tension and clever plays!
Highlights
- Strategic two-player challenge
- Tense direct interaction
- Fast and easy to learn
- High replayability
Keep in mind
- Sometimes helps opponent
- Initial learning curve
- Can be frustrating
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready for a card duel in 'The Game: Face to Face'! If you enjoyed the tense atmosphere and race against time of the original 'The Game' but prefer a more intimate challenge for two, this version is for you. Here, the goal is to get rid of your cards as quickly as possible by building ascending and descending piles. But don't be fooled, the game isn't just about you! To progress, you'll have to help your opponent at times, playing a card on their pile once per turn, which can be a lifeline or a push towards their defeat (and your victory!). It's a delicate balance between wanting to win alone and needing to give the adversary a little boost. Each turn requires you to play at least two cards, and the trick is knowing when and where to use that special move that affects the other player's piles. It's fast, tense, and perfect for those who enjoy card games with a dash of strategy and direct interaction. Can you outsmart your opponent and empty your hand first?
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Nürnberger-Spielkarten-Verlag, Arclight Games, DV Games, Fractal Juegos, Game Factory, Happy Games, Oya, Pandasaurus Games, White Goblin Games
Designer
Reinhard Staupe, Steffen Benndorf
Artist
Oliver Freudenreich, Sandra Freudenreich
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
3,741owners
226wishlist
33want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Is this game cooperative like the original 'The Game'?
No, 'The Game: Face to Face' is a competitive two-player game. You compete to see who gets rid of their cards first, but with the twist that one player can play cards on the other's piles to help them.
How many cards do I play per turn?
You must play at least two cards from your hand each turn. One of these plays can be on your opponent's pile, once per turn.
Is it very complicated to learn?
The basic rules are quite simple, following the line of 'The Game'. The complexity arises in the tactical decisions of when and how to help or hinder your opponent.
How long does a game last?
Games are very quick, usually lasting around 20 minutes, making it great for playing anytime.
Is it a good game for someone new to board games?
Yes! Because it's fast and has accessible rules, it's a good entry point for card games with a bit more strategy and interaction.
Can I play with more than two people?
No, this game is designed exclusively for two players.
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