Objective of the Game

Tides of Time is a strategic card game for two players, where the aim is to gather cards with various features and symbols to score the most points over three rounds.

Game Components

• 18 large format cards, each with unique symbols and abilities.
• 2 overview cards showing the gameplay and scoring.
• Point markers to keep track of the victory points.

Setup

1. Each player receives an overview card.
2. Shuffle the 18 cards and deal 5 to each player.
3. The remaining cards form a draw pile.

Gameplay

The game is played over three rounds, with each round consisting of the following phases:

1. Card Selection and Exchange Phase

• Both players simultaneously choose one card from their hand to play face up.
• They then pass the remaining cards to the other player.
• This process repeats until both players have five cards in front of them.

2. Scoring Phase

• The face-up cards are scored based on their printed effects.
• Points are awarded for specific symbol combinations and conditions illustrated on the cards.

3. Passing Phase

• Each round ends with each player keeping one of their displayed cards permanently ("carried to future rounds") and discarding another one permanently from the game.
• Then both players draw cards from the pile until they have five cards in hand again.

End of the Game

After three rounds, the game ends and players calculate their accumulated victory points. The player with the most points wins.

Strategy Tips

• Balance Current and Future Rounds: Since cards stay around for another round, plan which symbols you want to retain to become stronger round by round.
• Pay Attention to Symbols: All cards belong to one of five kingdoms. Choose between variety or specialization depending on which approach will score you more points.
• Card Combinations: Some cards enhance each other – explore what synergies exist and how you can maximize them.

The game requires strategic thinking and the finesse to anticipate your opponent’s strategy to succeed.