Wish Upon a Star

(Self-Published) · Board game · 2024
3–4 30 min
7.3 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Buy
7.3 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Perfect for families and beginners looking for a quick game with a touch of clever strategy.

Highlights
  • Very original blend of mechanics
  • Super charming animal theme
  • Very smooth learning curve
  • Fast and dynamic sessions
Keep in mind
  • Might be too simple for hardcore gamers
  • Relies on a certain amount of luck
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Ever wondered what happens when you blend the strategy of deck-building with the tension of a trick-taking game? That's exactly what Wish Upon a Star brings to the table! Here, the competition centers on numbers: the player who plays the highest value card wins the round and converts that value into happiness points. It sounds straightforward, but that's where the twist lies. In this game, losing actually has its own value. The player who doesn't win the round earns stars proportional to the number they played, and these stars are the currency used to purchase better cards. This creates a constant dilemma: do you want to win the round now to score points, or do you prefer to 'lose' strategically to strengthen your deck and dominate the game later? This dynamic creates a fascinating balance, where a momentary defeat is the fuel for the ultimate victory. With an adorable animal theme and fluid gameplay, it's perfect for those seeking something quick that still requires mid-term strategic thinking. The final goal is clear: be the first to accumulate 50 happiness points to win. It's the kind of game you can teach in five minutes, but that sparks strategic debates for hours. Ideal for family game nights or for those wanting to introduce deck-building mechanics to kids without the complexity of heavier titles. Prepare your deck, plan your moves, and try to balance luck with strategy to reach for the stars!

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–4 players
3 OK
4 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher (Self-Published)
Designer Koudai Tateno, root (ルート)

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Is the game suitable for children?
Yes! It's classified as a children's game with simple and intuitive rules, making it great for teaching strategic concepts.
How long does a game last?
Games are quite fast, averaging about 30 minutes, making it ideal for playing multiple rounds in a row.
Do I need to know how to play trick-taking games to start?
Not necessarily. The mechanic is very accessible, and you'll pick up the logic quickly during your first game.
How many people can play?
The game supports 3 to 4 players, which is the ideal number to keep the competitiveness and table dynamics.
Is the game complex?
No, the weight is low. The complexity lies more in managing when to spend your stars than in understanding the rules.

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