There are a whole bunch of casual card games that mix strategy with sabotage. Some are fun. Others are Munchkin. Unstable Unicorns has carved out a distinct niche. Marketed as a highly interactive “take-that” card game for 2-8 players, it promises adorable artwork, accessible mechanics, and plenty of opportunities for betrayal. But beneath its vibrant aesthetic and playful premise, does Unstable Unicorns hold up as a compelling game, or does its unpredictability make for more frustration than fun?
It’s a game I’ve recently been playing with groups of kids, and I’ve had a pretty good time with it. Certainly enough to feature it as game of the month for April! It’s not the best game I’ve played this month, but it’s one with which I’ve generally had a good time. Let’s explore that.
As we go into this review, it’s worth stating that a review copy was not provided by the publisher, and this was actually a gift from a friend. There are affiliate links at the end of the review.
At its core, Unstable Unicorns, from Unstable Games, is a race to build your unicorn army before your opponents. Players start with a baby unicorn in their stable and use various cards either to grow their own stable or disrupt that of their opponents. With instant effects, ongoing abilities, and unpredictable consequences, the game embraces chaos.
Cards fall into several key categories:
- Unicorns: Basic and magical unicorns that add unique abilities to your stable.
- Magic Cards: One-time effects that can be used for benefits or disruptions.
- Downgrade Cards: Debilitating effects placed on opponents to hinder their progress.
- Upgrade Cards: Beneficial effects that enhance your stable or abilities.
- Neigh Cards: The infamous counterspells that block an opponent’s action entirely, leading to major swings in gameplay.
With such a variety of mechanics designed to interfere with other players, Unstable Unicorns quickly transforms into a game where temporary alliances form, friendships are tested, and strategic plans are often demolished by sheer luck or malevolent intent.
So, what does the game do well?
Well, the first thing that draws players in is the quirky, colourful aesthetic. The unicorn designs range from adorable to ridiculous, with themes like “Zombie Unicorn,” “Llama Unicorn,” and “Sadistic Unicorn.” The playful nature of the artwork sets the tone for a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
One of the game’s strongest points is how easy it is to pick up. The turn structure is straightforward; draw a card, play a card. There’s no complex bookkeeping required. Even players unfamiliar with modern tabletop games can get into Unstable Unicorns without much difficulty.
The game is highly interactive, with constant action, counters, and retaliation between players. If your gaming group enjoys lively back-and-forth battles and doesn’t mind direct conflict, Unstable Unicorns can be a genuinely engaging and funny experience.
Sounds good. What’s the catch?
While the game thrives on interference, this can also be its downfall. Many cards exist purely to sabotage other players, which means someone is always the target of an unfortunate downgrade, a surprise Neigh, or a game-altering magic card. If you dislike highly aggressive, cutthroat mechanics, Unstable Unicorns might feel more frustrating than fun. It gets a bit Munchkin…
Despite having strategic elements, the game leans significantly into luck. A bad opening hand or too many counter cards against you can leave you struggling to gain momentum. Some players enjoy the unpredictability, but for those who prefer deeper tactical play, the randomness can feel unfair.
While marketed as a 30-45 minute game, matches can easily stretch longer; especially with higher player counts. Endless counters and disruptions often stall progress rather than push the game forward, leading to sessions that feel drawn-out. You really can get stuck in take-that hell.
Unstable Unicorns is undeniably appealing for its accessible rules, fantastic artwork, and high level of player interaction. However, I just find it hard to get past that munchkin-esque gameplay. There are other games that do the same thing, but better. I’m thinking Cosmic Encounter or Doomlings, there. But it’s still fun and I like playing it with younger groups. Those groups are also a little more forgiving on the inconsistent pacing that I’ve experienced with this game.
Really, any group that takes casual games lightheartedly, and can embrace the chaos, will enjoy Unstable Unicorns. This is especially true if they’re also okay with a little bit of confrontation and mischief. I wouldn’t play this at club. The folk there generally want a deeper, more strategic card game with a bit less constant sabotage.
In the right setting, such as party-style gaming nights or casual play sessions, Unstable Unicorns can provide plenty of laughs and unexpected twists. It’s just not for every group, y’know?
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