Ninja Star

Ninja Star is a game that is played with a single card. Each match can be played in 1-2 minutes. Playing with a group? No problem! The winner of each match can challenge the next in line. Who will survive to the end!?

Story

It is the time of the ninja trials. Only one ninja can be the best. Only one can be the star of the clan. To determine who will be that star, you have entered a contest of skill and accuracy with a shuriken. It is the ninja's most famous bladed throwing weapon. You and your rival will be each other's targets. The loser will earn a lesson in recovering from non-lethal wounds, while the winner will become the star of the clan. The winner will be revered as the newest Ninja Star!

Rules

Two players stand facing each other, about six feet apart. Each round, one is the Ninja, the other is the Target. Determine who will be the first Ninja. The Ninja throws the shuriken card (i.e., the game card) at the Target, who makes a pose and then stands completely still (and, if not wearing glasses, covers their eyes with one hand). Then they swap roles and the new Ninja does the same. Then the round is over.

At the end of each round, determine the outcome. If both Ninjas hit their Target, each steps back six inches. If both Ninjas missed their target, each steps forward six inches. Repeat this until there is a round in which only one Ninja hits their target. That Ninja has the ultimate skills and is the star ninja for the game. Or as we say, the Ninja Star!

[Advanced Rules: only hits to the torso and neck count.]

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Message from the Designer

"Honestly, I almost didn't make this game. After the concept came to me, I thought it was just too simple and too ridiculous. Nevertheless, I decided to test out the mechanics with some friends—and everyone had a blast! So I prepared a prototype card and tried it out with more family, friends, and coworkers. Every time I introduced the game to a new group (both gamers and non-gamers alike), there were always smiles and laughter all around. And everyone wanted to keep playing for a shot at becoming the next star ninja! So, yes, I know this is a very simple concept. And, yes, I know it sounds ridiculous. But it is also a lot of fun! I hope this game will continue to bring joy to everyone brave enough to aim for the title of Ninja Star!" - Robert from rji games