Yomi (card game)

Yomi is a fighting game in card form, created by David Sirlin and published by Sirlin Games. It aims to emulate the strategic and mind-game aspects of traditional fighting games like Street Fighter or Tekken, but using a deck of cards to represent characters' moves and abilities.

Gameplay:

Each player controls a character represented by a unique deck of cards. These cards are categorized into basic moves such as normal attacks (Punches, Kicks, Throws), blocks, dodges, and powerful character-specific special moves and combos. Players simultaneously choose a card from their hand and reveal it. The interactions of these cards are governed by a ruleset designed to mirror fighting game principles. For example:

• Attack beats Throw: A normal attack will interrupt and hit a throw attempt.
• Throw beats Block: A throw will bypass a block.
• Block beats Attack: A block will defend against a normal attack.

Dodges can avoid attacks and throws, and can be followed up with a counterattack. Special moves often have unique properties and timings, creating opportunities for advanced strategies and mind games.

A key mechanic in Yomi is the "Combo" system. Many attacks, especially special moves, can be chained together to create longer and more damaging combos. Understanding how to link attacks and manage card resources is crucial for success.

Card Management:

Players manage their hand and discard pile throughout the match. After a round, cards are discarded based on the cards played. Players redraw cards until they have a full hand (usually 5-7 cards). Running out of cards forces a player to shuffle their discard pile back into their deck, potentially drawing unwanted cards and creating vulnerabilities. Effective hand management and knowing when to commit to specific actions is a critical skill in Yomi.

Characters:

Yomi features a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique playstyle, strengths, and weaknesses. Characters often possess unique card abilities and combo patterns that reflect their personality and background. Mastering a character requires understanding their specific card combinations and learning how to exploit their opponent's vulnerabilities.

Editions and Expansions:

Yomi has gone through several editions and expansions, introducing new characters, card abilities, and game modes. These additions provide players with new strategic options and challenges. The core gameplay remains consistent across versions, with changes typically focused on expanding the roster and refining game balance.

Purpose:

Yomi attempts to distill the essence of fighting games—reading your opponent, predicting their moves, and executing counter-strategies—into a card game format. It aims to provide a strategic and mentally stimulating experience for players who enjoy fighting games but may not have the time or access to traditional video game consoles.