Neopets TCG (2003)

About this game

The game is based on the successful Neopets website that allows kids of all ages to create and nurture virtual pets, while engaging them in various kinds of games. Choose three of the four contest arenas (strength, agility, magic, intelligence) to place your Neopets. Then engage in contests which involve stats from those cards and other item and equipment cards you can play. Both players roll a die to add to their totals, and if you win, you get to "bank" a card to the playmat from your hand. Each of those cards banked has a point value, and when you bank 21 points you win. There are also cards with the curious card type of "Something Has Happened!" Advanced rules add Heroes, Villains, Locations, Experienced Neopets, and other new concepts. Home Page: http://www.neopets.com/neoboards/boardlist.phtml?board=20

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 1.3/5 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.