Schadenfreude

Schadenfreude

Card Game
Players
3-5
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
4 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
20 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
10+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
1.8 / 5
Year
2020

About the game

Schadenfreude is a trick-taking card game for 3 to 5 players where the goal is to score as close to 40 points as possible without going over. With no trump suit and a strict must-follow-suit rule, the winner of each trick is actually the player who plays the second-highest card of the lead suit, not the highest. Winners collect that trick's cards along with any off-suit cards into a personal score pile, but can hold at most one card of each rank: a second copy sends both cards to the discard instead. Some cards carry negative point values, adding an extra layer of risk to every trick won. Games wrap up quickly in about 20 minutes once someone crosses the 40-point threshold.

Hobbli's Notes

Schadenfreude's twist of rewarding the second-highest card rather than the highest is a small rule change that completely reshapes how you play every trick. We like the tension of pushing your luck toward exactly 40 points rather than simply maximizing points like most trick-takers. The one-card-per-rank collection rule adds a nice extra layer of decision-making on top of standard trick-taking. It's a clever, quick pick for trick-taking fans looking for something different.

What we like

  • A clever target-score twist where you aim for exactly 40 points, not just the most points.
  • No trump suits keeps every suit relevant throughout the game.
  • The one-card-per-rank collection rule adds a fresh push-your-luck layer.
  • Quick 20-minute playtime makes it an easy addition to any game night.

Keep in mind

  • Negative-value cards may confuse players new to trick-taking games.
  • Thin theme with minimal table presence beyond the cards themselves.
  • Niche appeal that may mostly attract dedicated trick-taking fans.

Who it's for

Best for trick-taking enthusiasts aged 10+ who enjoy quick, clever card games in groups of 3-5.

Mechanics

Set CollectionTrick-taking

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