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The Ultimate Guide to Playing “Once Upon A Time” Board Game

"Once Upon A Time" is a creative storytelling board game with a twist. Players weave stories together, drawing upon elements depicted on their cards. The challenge lies in skillfully crafting a narrative that leads to the Ending card, as the first player to play this card wins the game. It's a unique and engaging way to ignite your imagination and showcase your storytelling prowess.

Administrator

17 July, 2024

Are you looking for a fun new game to play with your friends and family? Look no further than Once Upon A Time! This unique board game is a great way to unwind after a long day, offering an entertaining and creative experience for all players.

1 Introduction to Once Upon A Time Board Game

Introduction to Once Upon A Time Board Game

To start the game, the first player (the storyteller) will begin narrating a story about themselves. When they mention an element that appears on one of the cards in their hand, they must immediately place it face-up on the table.

Similarly, if the storyteller mentions an element that is on another player’s card, that player can interrupt the current storyteller and take over the storytelling. The first player to use all their cards and conclude their story wins the game.

For more information: Basic and expanded rules

2 Learn the Rules of Once Upon A Time in 5 Minutes

Learn the Rules of Once Upon A Time in 5 Minutes

Step 1 Deal one “Ending” card to each player, followed by the “Story” cards. The number of “Story” cards dealt depends on the number of players.

Step 2 Decide who will be the first storyteller. The player whose “Story” card comes first alphabetically will go first.

Step 3 The chosen player begins narrating their story.

Step 4 The storyteller can tell their story in any way they like. Whenever they mention something that is on one of their cards, they are allowed to play that card, placing it face-up on the table.

Step 5 Respect the cards. Since each card is important and can be used only once, ensure that the elements mentioned are clear and specific in your narrative, contributing significantly to the evolving story. Be careful not to break the rules by playing a card that doesn’t align with your story.

For more information: Additional guidelines

3 How to Play Once Upon A Time

How to Play Once Upon A Time

Preparation

Get your hands on a Once Upon A Time card game set. The game is designed to be compact and portable.

Players

Deal the cards to all participants. Each player receives one “Ending” card. Then, depending on the number of players, deal the “Story” cards: for 2 players, deal 10 cards each; for 3 players, 8 cards each; for 4 players, 7 cards each; for 5 players, 6 cards each; and for 6 players, 5 cards each. Remember, each player should have only one “Ending” card. After dealing the cards, decide who will be the first storyteller.

For more details: Comprehensive guide

Types of Cards

Types of Cards in Once Upon A Time

There are two types of cards used in the game: “Once Upon a Time” and “Happy Ever After.” Here’s how they work:

“Once Upon a Time” cards (Story cards): Each of these cards features specific characters and objects that may appear in your story. They are clearly marked with names and group symbols. In addition to these story cards, there are also “Interrupt” cards that add an element of surprise to the game.
You can use these “Interrupt” cards to interrupt the current storyteller and take over the storytelling. The purpose of these cards is to disrupt the flow of the current storyteller and allow you to continue the story in your own direction.
“Happy Ever After” cards (Ending cards): Each of these cards represents a possible outcome or ending to the story. During the game, each player receives only one “Ending” card, and their goal is to craft a story that aligns with that ending.
The cards feature charming, classic artwork reminiscent of fairy tales and childhood stories, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The designs are small, cute, and easy to hold, adding to the overall enchanting experience of the game.

Detailed Rules

Detailed Rules of Once Upon A Time

Once Upon A Time is designed to encourage imagination and collaboration among players. Using the cards, players will collectively create a story featuring iconic characters such as Princes, Fairies, and Witches.

The first storyteller will use the elements on their cards to weave a narrative. Whenever they mention an element on one of their cards, they will turn that card face-up.

The storyteller will shape their story to align with the ending on their “Happy Ever After” card, which is unique to them. The winner is the first player to play their “Ending” card, indicating that they have used all their “Story” cards.

4 Tips and Tricks for Playing Once Upon A Time

Tips and Tricks for Playing Once Upon A Time

Once Upon A Time is a light and simple board game that is incredibly engaging and perfect for get-togethers with friends and family. Here are some considerations and tips to help you choose the right game and playing style for your gatherings:

It can be challenging to find enough players, and the game is in English.
The gameplay is simple yet highly creative.
Any story can unfold during the game.
Ideal for small groups of 2 to 6 players.
It doesn’t take long to play.
Stay focused when holding the cards.

The game requires intense concentration. If you’re not paying attention, you might mention something that appears on another player’s “Story” card, or if another player has an “Interrupt” card when you play your card, they can take over the storytelling.

We hope you found this information about Once Upon A Time helpful! Enjoy your game nights!