Apparently debuting in 1993, these collectable cards constitute a ccg of another sort. Each card's face is boardered by scratch of spots, just like instant lottery tickets. The cards represent opponents in a battle of law and chaos, with the goal of collecting rare treasure cards. Individual cards can represent specific individuals, a race of creature, a generic character type and may even be supernatural in origin. On the front of each is top notch fantasy art, by names I feel I should recognize, but don't. On the back, each card is rated for combat prowess called status (awesome, strong, warrior, powerful, etc.) to help keep opponents evenly matched. Also, the card's alignment is provided, either chaos, justice or neutral. Finally verbage is provided to describe what the card represents in varying detail, including special abilities, benefits and rewards.
The cards come in packs of 10, with the rules on the wrapper as well as in some of the cards texts'. One in twelve packs contains a limited edition treasure card, others must be earned and mailed away for. The rules are simple, players take turns scratching dots off of the 2 sides or bottom boarder of their opponent's card. A hit is scored when a red blood drop symbol is uncovered. When a hit is scored, the scoring player takes another turn until he scratches off a blank spot again. When the second hit is scored, the attacker then chooses to scratch of one of his opponent's 3 life spaces along the top of the card. One of the 3 life spaces reveals a skull, when the skull is uncovered the card is dead. The victor then scratches off the purse spot to see what he has won in gold. Card #7 provides "trading post" instructions for redeeming gold points for treasure cards and possibly other prizes (I have not seen the #7 card yet). The victor also keeps the looser's card and the used cards are intended to be collected for their art, as well as their potential for treasure card acquisition.
If instant lottery tickets don't entertain you, than neither will playing the "Scratch & Slay Combat System". The art is professional, so collectors may find them of value for that alone. Diehard gamers may get caught up in the text of cards, learning the game world and the beings that inhabit it. Unfortunately only fanatics for any of the previous would have any excitement for this product. I would have to rate the cards high on quality, the concept unique and well executed, but the results lack luster and not at all addicting. After all, it is the addictiveness of ccgs that made them, and keeps them, popular. A very nice try, don't spend a lot.
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