Duel Masters

Objective of the Game: The goal in Duel Masters is to destroy all of your opponent's shields with your deck and finally attack them directly to win. Each player has five shields placed at the start of the game.

Setup

1. Each player needs a deck of at least 40 cards. Players can build custom decks based on strategic preference or use suggested starter decks.
2. Each player shuffles their deck and draws five cards for their starting hand.
3. Each player then places five cards face down as shields in front of them. These shields protect the player from direct attacks by the opponent.
4. Randomly determine which player goes first.

Game Flow

The game consists of alternating turns between the two players, each comprised of several phases:

1. Start Phase

At the beginning of your turn, draw one card from your deck.

2. Zones

Cards can be played into different zones: - Mana Zone: Any card can be placed as mana by laying it face-down here. Mana is required to play other cards. - Battle Zone: Place creature cards here to attack or defend against the opponent. - Shield Zone: The shields which were placed at the start of the game.

3. Main Phase

During this phase, you can: - Play Mana: Place one card from your hand face-down into the mana zone. - Summon Creatures: Pay the creature's mana cost by 'tapping' mana from your mana zone. - Cast Spells: You can also cast spells by paying their mana cost.

4. Combat Phase

• Choose your attacking creature and target: opponent's shields or creatures.
• If a shield is destroyed, the opponent draws the card into their hand (unless it's a Shield Trigger).
• Shield Triggers: These cards can be immediately played by the opponent at no mana cost.

5. End Phase

End your turn, and the opponent begins theirs.

Winning the Game

A player wins if: - All of the opponent's shields are destroyed and another creature successfully attacks them directly.

Tips

• Deck Balance: Ensure that your deck has a good balance of creatures and spell cards.
• Mana Management: Use your mana resources wisely, especially to summon powerful creatures or spells.
• Shield Trigger Utilization: Make effective use of shield trigger cards to turn the tide of the game.

Special Features

• Speed Attacker: Creatures with this ability can attack immediately and are not subject to the usual restrictions on new creatures (Summoning Sickness).
• Blocker: These creatures can intercept attacks that target shields, offering protection.

Duel Masters, with its blend of strategy and collectible card tactics, provides an engaging challenge for those eager to explore tactical depths.