Zen Master

999 Games, Eagle-Gryphon Games, Egmont Polska · Board game · 2010
3–5 · best 3 30 min Weight 1.3/5
6.3 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
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6.3 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Looking for a quick card game with a strategic twist that tests your ability to predict others? Zen Master is for you!

Highlights
  • Fast and strategic
  • Easy to learn
  • Portable and straightforward
Keep in mind
  • Low replayability
  • Little direct interaction
  • Can be frustrating
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Get ready for a battle of wits in Zen Master (also known as Yin Yang or Fifty-Fifty)! In this quick and straightforward card game, the goal is to have the lowest score possible by the end of a few rounds. Each turn, every player chooses a card from their hand to play. The highest card played earns light tokens, while the lowest earns dark tokens. The exact number of tokens for each color is determined by a special scoring card revealed for that turn. The twist is that these scoring cards can award different amounts of light and dark tokens, adding a very interesting strategic layer. At the end of each round, you discard pairs of light and dark tokens. Whatever remains is your score for that round. It sounds simple, but the decision of which card to play and when to sacrifice a stronger card to avoid unwanted tokens is what makes the game challenging. Unlike other games in its genre, in Zen Master, you don't play all the cards from your hand each round, giving you some wiggle room to plan your next moves. It's an ideal game for those who enjoy trick-taking and set collection mechanics but with a unique twist and a playtime that fits any break. Perfect for taking on trips or for quick matches among friends who appreciate a good, uncomplicated challenge.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 REC
5 REC
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Game details

Categories

Families

Series: Matchbox Games (Helvetiq) Series: Tin Box (Gryphon Games)
Publisher 999 Games, Eagle-Gryphon Games, Egmont Polska, Gen-X Games (GenX), Gigamic, Helvetiq, Mandoo Games, Popcorn Games, Vem Pra Mesa Jogos, Zoch Verlag
Designer Reiner Knizia
Artist Charlie Bink, Lucas Guidetti Perez, Marek Bláha
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Zen Master?
A game of Zen Master usually lasts around 30 minutes, making it quite fast.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 3 to 5 players.
Is it a difficult game to learn?
No, the rules are quite simple, and you'll get the hang of it within a few rounds. The complexity comes from the strategic decisions.
What is the theme of the game?
The theme is abstract, focusing on balance and scoring, with references to Yin Yang.
Who would enjoy this game?
It's great for those who enjoy card games with trick-taking and set collection mechanics but want something faster and with a unique twist.
Does the game have a lot of player interaction?
The interaction is indirect, focused on trying to predict and outmaneuver opponents' plays to get the best tokens (or avoid the worst).
Is it a good game for travel?
Absolutely! Being compact and having quick games, it's an excellent option to play anywhere.