Regicide

Regicide is a cooperative card game that's easy to learn but challenging to master. I was drawn to it because it can be played with a standard deck of cards, making it a great option for travel or impromptu game nights. While you can use any deck, the included art adds a fantastic visual theme to the game. It feels less abstract and more engaging when you're battling a King card with a characterful 4 card!

The game itself is surprisingly strategic, despite its simple premise. You work together to defeat enemy cards by playing cards from your hand and managing resources carefully. The game also has a nice level of tension - you're constantly balancing the need to deal damage with the risk of being overwhelmed by the enemies' attacks.

I found the game to be quite enjoyable, both solo and with friends. The companion app is a nice bonus too, especially for solo play and keeping track of the scoring for multiple games. The app is also helpful for those who prefer a streamlined experience with less math involved, which is something I found particularly useful in the beginning. It’s a little luck-based, but the strategic elements outweigh that for me.

Overall, I highly recommend Regicide. It's a great game for anyone who enjoys cooperative card games, and I especially appreciate the accessible nature of using a regular deck of cards. The artwork is stunning, and the game itself is a fun and engaging experience. It has earned a permanent spot in my game collection.