Sea of Clouds

Sea of Clouds

Card GamePirates
Players
2-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
4 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
45 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
10+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
1.7 / 5
Year
2016

About the game

Sea of Clouds casts players as flying pirate ship captains recruiting crew, gathering relics, and hoarding rum by carefully divvying up shares of Loot. On your turn you either claim a share (adding a hidden card to keep the next share tempting) or pass and let it grow richer for whoever takes it next. Periodically, ships collide in Boarding actions where Pirate strength determines who plunders Doubloons and cargo from their neighbors. It's a push-your-luck drafting game of hidden value and swashbuckling combat over twelve or fifteen rounds.

Hobbli's Notes

The push-your-luck 'take it or sweeten it for the next player' loop is the real star here - it constantly tempts you to gamble on better shares down the line. Miguel Coimbra's art brings genuine pirate-fantasy flair to what is at heart a clever set-collection engine. The periodic Boarding skirmishes add just enough direct conflict to keep the table lively.

What we like

  • Push-your-luck share mechanic keeps every turn tense.
  • Periodic Boarding combat adds satisfying direct player interaction.
  • Vivid pirate theme and artwork enhance the experience.
  • Moderate 45-minute playtime fits a casual game night.

Keep in mind

  • Hidden-value guessing can feel swingy or luck-driven at times.
  • Boarding combat outcomes can feel unpredictable and out of your control.

Who it's for

Fits 2-4 players aged 10+ who enjoy push-your-luck drafting games with a swashbuckling pirate theme.

Mechanics

Hidden Victory PointsIncrease Value of Unchosen ResourcesDraftingPush Your LuckSet Collection

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