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Every fairy tale has a beginning, a middle, and an end, right? But what if the adventure was more about how you get there? In Three Chapters, you’ll take on a story of your own. First, you’ll assemble your squad of fairy tale characters, your dream team of witches, wolves, and maybe even a princess or two. Then, you’ll put them to work, testing their worth in tricky situations. Finally, it’s time to cash in on the story’s big rewards. A little drafting, a dash of strategy, and some clever card play, all wrapped up in a whimsical fairy tale world. And when you close the book? Well, you’ll find out who truly lived “happily ever after.”
Spoiler: It might be you.
👥 2-6 players, ages 10+
⌛ Playing time: 30 minutes
📝 Designer: Joe Hout
🎨 Artwork: Jan Bintakies
🏢 Publisher: 999 Games (Dutch version, review copy provided) Originally published by AMIGO.
Gameplay Overview: A Tale in Three Acts
Chapter One: Draft Your Dream Team
The story begins with drafting. Each player picks from a hand of eight cards, filled with quirky fairy tale characters, passing the rest to the next player until everyone has seven cards. Each card brings something unique to the table, whether it’s high value, a specific character type, or an ability that could prove game-changing later on.
It’s a simple process, but it’s where the strategy starts. Will you focus on cards that set you up for success in the next chapter, or aim for long-term scoring opportunities in the finale? Every choice feels like the opening move in a much bigger story.
Chapter Two: Trials, Tricks, and Triumphs
Now the action begins. In this phase, each player takes turns playing one card, and the highest-value card wins the trick, earning its player a coveted star token. But there’s more to this chapter than brute force. Many cards have abilities that trigger when played, granting extra rewards like stars, hearts, or emeralds if their conditions are met. Even the smallest card can shine if you play it at the right time.
Once all cards have been played, they’re placed in front of you to prepare for the final act. It’s this mix of tactical decisions and long-term planning that keeps things engaging.
Chapter Three: The Final Score
This is where the curtain falls and the big points roll in. The cards you’ve played throughout the game are scored based on their abilities, character types, and how well they synergize with the rest of your lineup. Matching iconic duos or trios (hello, Goldilocks and the Three Bears!) can be incredibly rewarding, while some cards thrive simply by being part of a broader ensemble.
When the dust settles and the scores are tallied, the player with the most points takes the crown and, presumably, a well-deserved happily-ever-after.
Final Thoughts: A Tale Worth Telling
Three Chapters manages to tell a complete story in a compact, streamlined package. The balance between drafting and trick-taking keeps you on your toes throughout the game. It’s accessible enough to learn quickly, but there’s plenty of room for strategic depth, whether it’s choosing the right companions in the draft, outsmarting opponents in the tricks, or crafting the perfect final tableau.
What really stands out, though, is the theme. The fairy tale setting isn’t just window dressing; it’s woven into every part of the gameplay, from the artwork to the mechanics. You’ll find yourself smiling at clever character combos and appreciating how the game rewards creativity and foresight.
The components, like the sturdy wooden tokens and beautifully illustrated cards, add to the experience. And with its small box size, it’s easy to take this one along for a game night or a cozy weekend at the cottage (preferably one without any wolves lurking around).
If you enjoy games that feel both familiar and fresh, Three Chapters is a great pick. It’s quick, fun, and full of those little “aha!” moments that make you want to dive back in for another round. After all, who wouldn’t want another shot at writing their own happily-ever-after?
📝 A review copy of Three Chapters was provided by the publisher, 999 Games.
