How To Play: Encounters

So, you’ve picked up Encounters and realized your friends are way too smug for your liking? Good news—I’ve played Encounters way too much (seriously, my cat sighs every time the box comes out), and I’m here to help! This guide gives you a handy outline of the game rules and the absolute best strategies for winning (yes, even against that one friend who always brags).

Overview

What’s in the box

• 120 Encounter cards
• 30 Resource tokens
• 5 Player boards
• 1 Rulebook
• 15 Character standees
• 1 Turn order tracker
• 10 Dice
• 60 Victory point tokens

How To Play Encounters: Rules Summary

Setup

1. First, lay out the game board in the center of your table. Clear any snacks or cats first.

2. Next, shuffle the encounter deck and place it face down.

3. Give each player their meeples, resource tokens, and starting cards. If someone gets more, take them away—no cheating.

4. Then, flip the top card of the encounter deck to start the first challenge.

Gameplay

1. On your turn, draw a card from your deck. Try not to gasp dramatically every time, but I won’t judge you.

2. Play cards and use resources to overcome the current encounter. Some cards combo together, so play smart—don’t just throw everything at your problem (like I do with laundry).

3. After your move, pass the turn to the next player. Repeat until the encounter is solved or you all fail spectacularly.

Winning

1. When you complete the final encounter, everyone wins and should cheer (bonus points for a dramatic victory speech).

2. If you run out of cards or resources, or fail too many encounters, the game wins. Yes, you can lose to cardboard.

Special Rules & Conditions

1. If a card or encounter changes the rules, follow the instructions—even if it means barking like a dog. I had to.

2. Some encounters let you trade resources with friends or steal from them. Use your charm, but remember: revenge is a dish best served cold.

3. Ties are settled by rock-paper-scissors. No exceptions. House rules are only allowed if everyone agrees (and you bribe them with snacks).

The key to understanding How To Play encounters is to keep it light, follow the rules, and remember: it’s just a game. Unless you lose, and then it’s personal.

Best Encounters Strategies

Resource Management: The Secret Sauce to Winning Encounters

Why Resources Matter

First, every round throws new problems at you. If you waste resources early, you’ll cry later. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it wasn’t pretty. So, smart players count every card and token like gold.

Top Ways to Stretch Your Resources

1. Always save a little for emergencies. You never know when a monster or a wild card will mess up your plans.
2. Spend only when a move guarantees you points. Don’t get flashy too soon.
3. Check your opponents. If they’re burning resources faster than you, you might just win by being patient.

How To Play Encounters Like a Pro

If you watch for timing and never panic, you’ll soon see everyone else running out of options. How To Play encounters well means you always have an answer, even when chaos breaks loose.

Unlocking Victory: Perfecting Your Card Combo Timing in Encounters

Know Your Power Cards

1. First, always track your strong cards. I once forgot I had a game-changer and lost to Dave, who now reminds me weekly.

2. Then, use them together for a bigger effect, rather than one at a time.

Watch What Others Play

1. Meanwhile, pay attention to your friends’ moves. I wait for Rachel to waste her defense card before I strike.

Hold Back for the Big Move

1. Sometimes, wait an extra turn—yes, it’s risky, but an epic combo wipes out any help your rivals might have coming.

Now you know How To Play encounters with style: it’s all about timing those flashy combos, not just playing them as soon as you get them!

Mastering Turn Order: Outsmart Your Friends in Encounters

When I played Encounters, I learned turn order can make or break your game. It’s not just when you play, but how you use your spot in the round. I’ve lost by going too soon or too late! Here’s how to stay ahead using turn order tactics and boost your chances of winning. How To Play encounters is all about timing, so use these tricks:

Plan Moves Ahead

1. Watch what other players do before your turn.
2. Save your best cards for when you know you’ll get maximum value.

React to Opponent Mistakes

1. If a player leaves a weak spot, strike right after them.
2. Adjust your plan based on cards played just before you.

Steal the Initiative

1. Sometimes, going first can give you the lead—use that power for big plays when you need it most.
2. But, save a surprise or two for when you’re last, picking up what others missed.

Victory Awaits — If You Remember To Have Fun!

Well, there you have it! I’ve shared my best advice for Encounters, pulled right from the table where my friends and I argued over whether Steve was cheating (he always is, but he denies it). Use your resources wisely, plan those sweet card combos, and never—seriously, never—underestimate the power of turn order. I’ve lost too many games because I forgot Steve was sitting right after me.

Most importantly, don’t forget to laugh when you mess up. Encounters is at its best when you’re cracking jokes and maybe plotting a minor revenge on the winner. Now you know How To Play Encounters and win with both skill and style!

Want to know what we think of Encounters? Read our detailed review of Encounters here