Queen's Necklace

Queen's Necklace is a delightful card drafting game that immerses you in the opulent world of the French court. The theme of gem-selling and courtly intrigue is engaging, and the mechanics are simple to learn but offer surprising depth. The artwork is stylish, and the components are well-made.

I found the "set collection" aspect of the game to be particularly clever. You're constantly trying to balance acquiring the most valuable gems while also considering their rarity and the fluctuating fashion trends. The tension of the auction phase, where you try to sell your creations for the highest points, is exhilarating.

The game can be quite mean, as there are cards that allow players to sabotage each other. This adds a layer of strategic complexity, but it might not be for everyone. I personally enjoy the cutthroat competition, but I can see how it might turn some players off.

The new version is a significant improvement over the older one, with a more streamlined design and improved components. However, I do miss the actual jewelry necklace from the original edition.

I've found Queen's Necklace to be a great choice for both casual and experienced gamers. It's fun and engaging, and it offers a good balance of strategy and luck. If you're looking for a card drafting game with a unique theme and a bit of cutthroat competition, I highly recommend checking out Queen's Necklace.