Beware the last card!
Xactika is an original card game, which challenges a players’ ability
to estimate the outcome of playing 8 cards. You must predict the chances
of being able to take the other players’ cards that are laid down during
each round. There is no drawing or discarding. You must predict exactly
(hence the name Xactika) the number of rounds in which you will be able to
take the cards played. As play evolves, cards that appear too weak to take
a trick initially may become strong enough to do so as the hand evolves.
Players must recognize the value of their hand, not just from having the
highest point cards in one of the four combinations on each card, but also
from an understanding of the chances that for some of their other cards
that no cards of the same combination may remain in the hands of the other
players. Xactika, while of the same genera as Spades or Euchre, has more
opportunity and takes a little more skill.
To play you must examine your hand to find cards in specific
combinations that have values that are greater than your opponents. Some
cards are sure bets, but only if you can take the lead. Other cards have a
high probability of taking a trick, but this depends upon how the cards
are played by others. So, careful attention must be paid to the moves of
other players. You must also arrange to play your cards so that at the end
of each hand you don’t get stuck with a trick you don’t want. The
outcome of a hand is not determined until the end of the 8 rounds, so each
player must keep focused on the play throughout each of the eight hands of
the game. Keep on your toes, and figure out how to take, as well as avoid
taking, tricks. There are a number of ways to play each hand, but finding
the way to make exactly the right numbers of bids is the challenge.
Xactika is a fast turn game. Each hand provides a completely new
opportunity to come from behind and take the lead. Even if a player is
behind, they can win if the probabilities and their skill come together.
Length: 30-45 minutes
Awards: 2002 Parents' Choice
Award
Vendor: Set Enterprises
