Haggis

Haggis

Card Game
Players
2-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
2 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
45 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
13+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.1 / 5
Year
2010

About the game

Haggis is a climbing card game in the tradition of Tichu and Big Two, where players race to be the first to empty their hand by playing increasingly powerful card combinations. It borrows familiar elements from its parent games, card combos, bombs, and scoring for cards held or collected in tricks, while adding evenly distributed wild cards and a betting element for who'll go out first. Team-based play adds another layer of strategy as partners work together across hands. It's a tight, portable card game that rewards reading the table and timing your plays.

Hobbli's Notes

Haggis is a well-loved, under-the-radar climbing game that BGG regulars often point to as a hidden gem. The blend of betting, wild cards, and combo-based ladder climbing gives it more depth than it first appears while staying quick to play. It's an excellent choice for card game fans who've worn out their Tichu deck and want something with a similar feel but fresh wrinkles.

What we like

  • Tight, portable card game with meaningful combo-building decisions.
  • Wild cards and betting add unique twists to the climbing genre.
  • Quick to teach for anyone familiar with Tichu or Big Two.
  • Team-based option adds replay variety.

Keep in mind

  • Requires familiarity with climbing-game conventions to fully appreciate.
  • Betting element can feel swingy for newer players.
  • Card luck plays a real role in individual hands.

Who it's for

Card game enthusiasts who enjoy climbing games like Tichu or Big Two; best for 2-4 players, ages 10 and up, in about 45 minutes.

Mechanics

Betting and BluffingHand ManagementLadder ClimbingTeam-Based Game

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