“Straw” from Alderac Entertainment Group is a rules-light card game that is quick and very entertaining. Each player receives four cards, most of which are items like rugs or lamps. Each item has a weight. There are some special items that are wildcards or have negative weights. The players place a single card on the poor camel and then draw a card. Once the weight load on the camel exceeds 50, he “breaks” and the round ends. The player that broke the camel’s back scores nothing and the other players receive the value of their hands. A single card, the “straw card” allows the “breaking” player to score and everyone else scores nothing.
Strategy is complex enough to keep adults interested, but not so much as to exclude children and casual gamers. I suggest you have at least three players. Two players is workable, but some of the cards (like reverse) lose their value. Overall, a fun, casual card game that is worth a look.
Full Disclosure: I picked up this game at GTS from the AEG booth.
