Lucky First Incense (2023)

About this game

Legend has it that the person who lights the first incense on the first day of the Lunar New Year will receive blessings from the Gods and have good luck for the entire year. As a result, on New Year's Eve, hundreds of people gather in front of temples to compete for the privilege of lighting the first incense, which is known as the "Lucky First Incense." In this game, you and your family members aim to secure the best positions at various temples in order to be the ones to light the first incense. However, be prepared for fierce competition from your neighbors who won't make it easy for you... The game is played over 2 rounds. In the Evening Phase, players take turns sending their family members to occupy the seats in front of the temples or offering incense to seek blessings from the Gods. In the Midnight Phase, all family members rush to the front lines, competing for the opportunity to light the first incense and get the amulets (as victory points). At the end of the game, the player with the most amulets wins!

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 5.
• Rules load. At 1.5/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 8 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.