Cuttle

About this board game

Cuttle is a two-player card game played in about 5 minutes with a regular 52-card deck.

The aim is to have at least 21 points worth of number cards on the table. Each turn gives you a choice: take a card from the stock pile, play a card on the table, or use a card for a one-off effect.

Almost all of the different card ranks have their own special effects, making the deck more than a collection of number cards. These effects can change the situation quickly and give both players ways to interfere with the opposing table.

• Remove all number cards from the table.
• Counter an effect that was just played.
• Take any card from the scrap pile.
• See your opponent’s cards.

With its compact ruleset, short play time, and wide range of card effects, Cuttle creates a direct contest between two players using only a standard deck. The central challenge is to build enough points on the table while responding to the effects played against you.

Cuttle is somewhat similar to Magic: The Gathering, though it is likely much older. Pagat.com dates the game to “the 1970s at the latest.” It is also associated with the games Control, Scuttle!, and Wreck.