What is the objective of the game Exploding Kittens?

The objective of the game Exploding Kittens is to be the last player standing by avoiding the explosive feline cards in the deck. Exploding Kittens is a card game designed by Elan Lee, Matthew Inman, and Shane Small. It gained widespread popularity through a highly successful Kickstarter campaign in 2015.

In Exploding Kittens, players take turns drawing cards from the deck, hoping to avoid drawing an exploding kitten card. The game is played with a deck of cards that includes a certain number of exploding kitten cards, as well as other action cards that can be used strategically to avoid or mitigate the danger of exploding kittens.

The deck is shuffled and each player starts with a hand of cards. On their turn, a player must first draw a card from the deck. If a player draws an exploding kitten card, they are out of the game unless they have a defuse card. A defuse card can be played to defuse the exploding kitten, allowing the player to return it to the deck and place it back anywhere they choose. The defused kitten is then shuffled back into the deck.

To add an additional layer of strategy, the game also includes various action cards that players can play during their turn. These action cards allow players to strategically manipulate the deck or target other players. For example, players can use cards to peek at the next few cards in the deck, skip their turn, force other players to take multiple turns, or shuffle the deck to potentially alter the position of the exploding kittens.

The game continues with players drawing cards and playing action cards until only one player remains. The last player standing, who has successfully avoided drawing an exploding kitten and has outlasted all opponents, is declared the winner.

Exploding Kittens combines luck, strategy, and a touch of unpredictability to create a fast-paced and humorous gameplay experience. The objective is to survive by avoiding the explosive feline cards, utilizing defuse cards when necessary, and strategically using action cards to manipulate the deck and disrupt opponents' plans.

The game's quirky and humorous artwork, created by Matthew Inman of the webcomic "The Oatmeal," adds to its appeal. Exploding Kittens offers a light-hearted and accessible game for players of various ages, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and competitive play.

The game also offers various expansion packs, introducing new cards and gameplay elements that further enhance the experience. These expansions include additional action cards, alternative game modes, and new types of kittens with unique effects.

In summary, the objective of Exploding Kittens is to be the last player remaining by avoiding the explosive kittens in the deck. Players draw cards, hoping to avoid drawing an exploding kitten, while utilizing defuse cards and strategic action cards to manipulate the deck and disrupt opponents. With its blend of luck, strategy, and humor, Exploding Kittens provides an entertaining and engaging card game experience for players of all ages.