Paint the Roses

Paint the Roses is a cooperative deduction game set in the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. You and your fellow Royal Gardeners work together to arrange the palace grounds according to the Queen of Hearts' ever-changing whims, represented by secret cards each player receives.

The game's mechanics are simple: you choose a shrub tile from the Greenhouse and place it in the garden, revealing clues about the secret whims. By carefully observing the placement of the tiles and the matching tokens, you try to deduce the patterns on other players' cards. This deduction process is surprisingly engaging and forces you to communicate with your team, strategizing and sharing theories to uncover the hidden patterns.

What truly sets this game apart is the thrilling tension created by the Queen of Hearts. Her relentless pursuit keeps you on your toes, and her speed automatically adjusts based on your score. Every wrong guess adds to her momentum, making each turn feel like a race against time.

I personally prefer the Deluxe version with its acrylic tiles and dual-layered board. The upgraded components add a premium feel and enhance the overall experience. However, the core game is solid even with the standard components. The inclusion of the Escape the Castle expansion in the Deluxe version adds even more variability and replayability to the game.

While the game is fun with two players, it shines with three or more. With a larger group, the deduction aspect becomes even more dynamic and engaging, as you work together to unravel the Queen's whims and escape her wrath. If you enjoy cooperative deduction games and have a fondness for the Alice in Wonderland theme, then Paint the Roses is a must-try.