9 Lives

9 Lives

AnimalsCard Game
Players
3-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
4 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
30 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
10+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
1.5 / 5
Year
2015

About the game

9 Lives is a trick-taking game for 3-4 players featuring cat-themed cards across three or four suits. Players bid on how many tricks they expect to win, and hitting your bid scores points while missing it costs you. Since the game follows suit with a fixed trump, and the trick winner also steals a card from the trick to add to their hand, careful bid management and card tracking are key. The game ends after four rounds or when a player reaches nine points, making for a quick, tight trick-taking experience.

Hobbli's Notes

Hobbli's editorial team enjoys how 9 Lives adds a neat twist to classic trick-taking by letting the trick winner snag an opposing card, injecting extra hand-management tension into each round. Its short 30-minute runtime and simple rules make it an easy, replayable filler. The charming cat theme and light auction-style bidding give it broad appeal beyond hardcore trick-taking fans. It's a great choice for groups who enjoy quick, competitive card games with a bit of bite.

What we like

  • Clever card-stealing twist adds extra depth to standard trick-taking.
  • Quick 30-minute playtime fits easily into any game night.
  • Charming cat theme broadens its appeal beyond genre purists.
  • Simple rules make it approachable for trick-taking newcomers.

Keep in mind

  • Fixed trump suit may feel limiting to trick-taking veterans.
  • Requires exactly 3-4 players, limiting flexibility.
  • Bid-based scoring can feel punishing on an off round.

Who it's for

Trick-taking card game fans ages 10+, best played with 3-4 players.

Mechanics

Auction / BiddingTrick-taking

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