Yokai Septet

A Japanese folklore trick-taking game where partners capture Yokai to protect their village.

Designer: Muneyuki Yokouchi (横内宗幸)
Published by: Ninja Star Games
Editions by: Matagot, 4GAMES, Grail Games, BoardGameMan, Underdog Games (II)

Long ago, Yokai spirits were wrecking human villages with floods, fires and plague. Then you, an Onmyoji, captured enough of them to save your village, only to hear that your own home has been hit hard in your absence. Yokai Septet (2018) turns that story into a trick-taking card game for two to four players, best as two teams of two. Win tricks to capture Yokai and shrink the menace. It is a fine pick if you already love trick-taking and want something with a Japanese folklore setting, a sharp partner game, and a quick forty-five minutes.

Trick-taking with a Yokai folklore themeTeams of two win tricks togetherWin tricks to capture spirits and save the village

Who it's for

You like trick-taking, enjoy a partner game where reading each other matters, and want a Japanese folklore theme.

Not for you if…

You dislike trick-taking or have fewer than four players. It plays best as two teams of two.

Vibe's take

Sharp and partner-driven. You read your teammate's plays, squeeze out a trick at the right moment and feel clever for it.