Trophies

Trophies by Façade games is a great word-based party game for 2-30 players. If you’re looking for a game that is huge amounts of fun, with whom ever you play it with and so simple to learn and teach, look no further than this.

In Trophies you are fighting to get the most trophy cards and to win the coveted mini, metal trophy included in the game. So how does it play and how do you win?

How To Play

One player acts as Question Master and holds the deck of cards. Each card has a letter displayed and underneath it, the trophy you will win. On the reverse is a set of 5 different possible categories. These are different on each card.

The Question Master reads the category from the back of the card at the bottom of the deck, whilst displaying the letter on the card at the top of the deck. The first person to provide an appropriate answer, that fits the category and begins with the letter displayed, wins that trophy card. The Question Master then moves the card from the back of the deck to the front, reads the next category from the new card at the back of the deck and the game continues until all cards have been won. 

Simples

It is truly that simple, but the pain players experience when searching their memory for a word that begins with that letter is immense. The constant desire to be first to shout out, often leading to some interesting words being offered, or should we say, made up, creates lots of fun and laughter and create memories within your group. Add to this, the feeling you get when you have the right word on the tip of your tongue but you just can’t find it whilst your eyes search the room for help, in vain hoping that no one else will find a word before you.

This tension is often palpable. When you get reallystuck, the Question Master can simply choose a new category to keep the game flowing and this does create a nice ebb and flow. In every game I’ve played, different players seem to go on runs of correct answers but at the end it is always closer than you’d think.

Every Point you Take

Before players total up their trophy cards there is a little sting in the tail. The Question Master has one special trophy card to present, the ‘you’re a winner’ participation trophy. In all games I have presided over, this has been where I have been able to increase the banter level. Awarding the player who has tried really hard but not quite hit the mark, or maybe the player who gave the most ridiculous answer. However, you choose to use this card it allows for some reflection on the game and a chance to poke a little fun in the direction of a few of the players. This even gives the Question Master the opportunity to play a part in the game beyond reading the categories.

Once this card is out, all players count up their cards and the winner is the player with the most trophies. They are then awarded the inch-high trophy and can laud it over their opponents in a trophy presentation.

The components are great, especially as this is a party game, solid, large cards that can easily be seen, even by Grandma, at a distance! A lovely colour scheme and some fun facts about the trophies that can be won. All this packaged in a tin, but the little trophy takes it to a new level when the winner is announced.

With 5 different category options on each card and the fact the card order is randomised each game, there is plenty of replayability. 

Summary

Trophies is a winner in its category. A game that is great as a fast filler for an established games group but would be a hit at Christmas or any other party with a large family or work’s group. So shuffle the deck, flip the first card and read out the category. See if you can collect the most card trophies and be crowned champ at the end. If you do you will be able to raise the tiny trophy aloft and bask in your victory.