Tidal Blades: Banner Festival is set in the vibrant world of Naviri, where inhabitants gather to celebrate the long‑awaited Banner Festival. At the heart of the event are clever merchants competing to earn the most profit, raise colorful banners, negotiate with suppliers, and place bets on thrilling watercraft races along the central course.
The world is visually rich — the signature artwork of Mr. Cuddington gives the game a distinctive, fantastical look full of color and energy.
Players are not warriors but shrewd traders who try to anticipate their opponents’ moves and seize opportunities in the floating market. The theme is light, festive, and centered around skill, timing, and tactical decision‑making.
Banner Festival is a trick‑taking game with multi‑use cards, known for its unique combination of mechanics.
It is designed for 2–5 players and plays in 30–45 minutes.
Each card played can unlock a different action depending on whether it is the highest, middle, or lowest card in the trick.
All players secretly choose a card and reveal it simultaneously, giving the game a fast and tactical rhythm.
- The highest card allows the player to move their watercraft toward the Trade Gate, earning points at the end of the round.
- The middle card allows players to place banners on docks or in towers, scoring points during and at the end of the game.
- The lowest card grants special abilities and resources that support long‑term strategies.
Because each card offers three potential outcomes, reading opponents becomes essential.
The game is played over three rounds, each filled with small "bouts" in which players expand their trading network, move their vessels, and place banners.
Tidal Blades: Banner Festival is a lively, tactically refined game that blends clever trick‑taking with festive charm to deliver a memorable nautical adventure. 🌊🏳️
