Sushi Go! A Card Drafting Feast for Competitive Foodies

Sushi Go! A Card Drafting Feast for Competitive Foodies

Prepare your chopsticks and dive into a world where delectable sushi reigns supreme. Sushi Go!, designed by Phil Walker-Chadwick, is not your average card game; it’s a delightful blend of strategy, quick thinking, and adorable cartoon sushi that will leave you craving more (both the game and actual sushi!).

The premise is simple yet deceptively deep: players simultaneously choose cards from their hand representing different types of sushi – Maki rolls, Nigiri, Sashimi, Tempura – and pass the remaining cards to their neighbor. This “drafting” mechanic forces you to make tough decisions on the fly: grab that tempting Salmon Nigiri or hold out for a potential point-scoring combo with the elusive Dumpling?

The beauty of Sushi Go! lies in its accessibility. While seasoned card gamers will appreciate the nuanced strategies, newcomers can easily grasp the rules and jump right into the sushi frenzy. Each round is fast-paced and exhilarating, leaving no room for lengthy contemplation. It’s a game that rewards both careful planning and adaptability, making each play session unique and unpredictable.

Let’s break down some of Sushi Go!’s key components:

Card Types:

  • Maki Rolls: These delicious bundles of rice and fillings score points based on who has collected the most (or fewest) during a round.
  • Nigiri: Served solo on a bed of rice, Nigiris grant points based on their specific type (Salmon, Squid, Egg). Collecting matching sets amplifies your score.
Type Points per Nigiri
Salmon 1
Squid 2
Egg 3
  • Sashimi: These elegant slices of raw fish offer a hefty point bonus if you collect three Sashimi cards during a round.
  • Tempura: Two Tempura cards together earn you a decent chunk of points, but collecting them solo doesn’t yield any reward.
  • Dumplings: Don’t underestimate the humble dumpling! While it may not score on its own, this card acts as a wild card and can be used to complete any set of Nigiri or Maki rolls for bonus points.

Gameplay Mechanics:

Sushi Go! revolves around drafting – selecting a card from your hand and passing the rest to your neighbor. This continues until all players have exhausted their cards. At the end of each round, players tally up their scores based on the collected sets of sushi. Points are awarded for:

  • Complete sets of Maki rolls or Nigiri (e.g., three Salmon Nigiris).

  • Collecting the most (or fewest) Maki rolls.

  • Gathering three Sashimi cards.

The game typically runs for 3 rounds, with scores accumulated throughout. The player with the highest total score at the end wins the coveted title of Sushi Master!

Production Value:

Sushi Go! boasts a charming and accessible design that is sure to please both children and adults. The cards feature adorable illustrations of various sushi types, making them visually appealing and easy to identify. The compact box size and straightforward rules make it an ideal choice for travel or impromptu gatherings.

Overall Experience:

Sushi Go! is a delectable treat for gamers of all levels. It offers a perfect blend of strategic depth, quick gameplay, and charming aesthetics. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just looking for a fun and engaging party game, Sushi Go! is sure to satisfy your craving for competitive sushi fun.

So gather your friends, sharpen your chopsticks, and prepare to embark on a delicious journey into the world of Sushi Go!