The series of possible plays initially creates a steep learning curve, but the chance of luck makes it possible for even players resisting strategy to enjoy themselves. In fact, as more players join, strategies quickly go awry, and some of the best strategy may simply be to act on what one sees at the moment. Once players get the hang of the game, however, it speeds up and takes on a fascinating form that those who like games like gin and rummy will immediately love.
Most striking about FlipOut is its possibilities for house rules. The in-box rules sheet already includes variations for “purchasing” a third action with tokens and drawing as an action for two-player games. Already we suggested new variations like being able to swap “sandwich” cards with one spaced between them and rainbow sets of all five in a row.
FlipOut is listed as for two to five players, ages eight and up, with games lasting about 15 minutes. However, younger players might not recognize all the possible strategies and games with new players still mastering the rules will definitely take longer. It is definitely a thinking person’s game, but still with enough balance of luck for casual and younger players to become enthralled.
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