Bacon

Product Description

Bacon is a climbing-style card game where players try to shed all the cards from their hand as quickly as possible. Players take turns playing combinations of cards — singles, sets, runs, and other patterns — that must beat the previous play on the table.

The twist is that once a type of combination is played, the rest of the players must continue playing that same type of set until the round ends. Clever timing, reading the table, and saving the right cards for the right moment can help you empty your hand first.

The game can be played with fixed partnerships or as an individual competition, depending on the player count and variant. In the team version, the first player out helps their team score points, creating a cooperative tension as partners try to finish early in the round.

With simple rules, playful diner-style artwork, and quick rounds, Bacon is easy to teach and makes a great filler between heavier games.

What We Think at WiredVillage Boardgames

Great team-based card games are surprisingly rare, and this one looks like it fits the bill nicely. The partnership play adds an extra layer of strategy as teammates try to help each other empty their hands first. We’re looking forward to trying this one ourselves — and of course, the bacon theme is hard to resist.

What People Are Saying

Simple and easy to teach
Reviewers often highlight how quickly new players understand the rules and jump into the game, making it a good gateway for people who enjoy traditional card games.

Inspired by classic climbing games
Many comparisons are made to games like Tichu and Scout. Bacon uses a similar ladder-climbing structure where players must beat the previous set with a stronger one.

Lighter and more approachable
Some reviewers note that Bacon simplifies the strategy of heavier climbing games, making it easier for casual players while still keeping the core tactical decisions.

Best with the right group
Players often say the game shines most with social groups that enjoy reading the table, playing quick tricks, and celebrating clever card plays.

Game Mechanisms

Climbing / Ladder Card Play
Players must play combinations that beat the current cards on the table, gradually climbing to stronger sets.

Hand Management
Choosing when to play your strongest cards or hold them back can determine who goes out first.

Team Play
In partnership games, teammates coordinate indirectly to help their side empty cards faster than the opposing team.

Special Card Sets
Certain card combinations can override normal plays, creating surprise moments that shift the round.