Show Manager

Show Manager

Card Game
Players
2-6
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
6 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
60 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
10+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.1 / 5
Year
1996

About the game

Show Manager has players assembling four theatrical productions by drafting actor cards from a constantly shifting queue, with each card representing a performer's skill at particular roles. Once a player fills all the roles needed for a show, its quality is judged relative to other productions of the same type, earning points based on how it stacks up. A reprint of the db-Spiele original Premiere from designer Dirk Henn, the game combines auction/bidding and drafting with set collection for 2 to 6 players.

Hobbli's Notes

A clever drafting-and-set-collection design from a respected Eurogame designer, where the relative judging of shows against each other is the real strategic hook. It's a bit dated compared to modern drafting games, but the core idea still holds up for fans of the genre.

What we like

  • Clever drafting-meets-judging system for assembling shows.
  • Rewards careful actor and role management.
  • Supports up to six players.
  • Classic Dirk Henn design pedigree.

Keep in mind

  • Significant downtime between turns in larger groups.
  • Dated production compared to modern titles.
  • Luck of the drafting queue can swing outcomes.

Who it's for

Suited to Eurogame fans aged 10 and up who enjoy drafting and set-collection games in groups of two to six.

Mechanics

Auction / BiddingDraftingSet Collection

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