Courtisans

In the opulent halls of power, where alliances are as fragile as glass and ambition reigns supreme, one game rises to the occasion: Courtisans. Set against the backdrop of a grand banquet hosted by the queen herself, Courtisans invites players to navigate the treacherous waters of courtly politics, where leaving a lasting impression is paramount, and no trick is too dirty in the pursuit of power.

At its core, Courtisans is a game of strategy and cunning. Each player receives three cards on their turn, wielding them like weapons in a delicate dance of influence and manipulation. The centerpiece of the game lies at the Queen's table, where players vie to sway the favor of influential families, using their cards to either elevate or undermine their standing. But the intrigue doesn't end there.

With the remaining cards, players must strategically place them within their own domain and that of their opponents. These cards hold the key to victory, as they can either bolster a family's status or drag them down into disgrace. Every move must be calculated, every decision weighed carefully, for in the game of Courtisans, one wrong move can spell disaster.

What sets Courtisans apart is its blend of strategy and deception. Players must not only consider their own interests but also anticipate the moves of their rivals, employing cunning tactics to outmaneuver them at every turn. Backstabbing is not only fair game—it's practically encouraged. In this cutthroat world of courtly intrigue, alliances are fleeting, and loyalty is a rare commodity.

Not sure if Courtisans is a game you would like? Here are three similar games that might help you decide:

1. Hanamikoji - Though only a 2 player game, Hanamikoji carries a similar feel of outwitting your rivals in a subtle dance of strategy.
2. Air Land & Sea - Both of these games have heavy elements of hand management and give and take.
3. Jaipur (jai·poor) - Both Courtisans and Jaipur have strong elements of set collection and strategic timing.
   

As the banquet unfolds and tensions rise, only the most cunning and ruthless player will emerge victorious. Will you seize the opportunity to elevate your favorite families to the spotlight, or will you succumb to the machinations of your rivals? In Courtisans, the choice is yours, but remember—only the most cunning will claim the throne.