Mastering the Art of Sushi Go!: A Comprehensive Guide to Gameplay and Strategy

Sushi Go! is a fast-paced, easy-to-learn card drafting game that’s perfect for families, friends, and game nights. Designed by Phil Walker-Harding, this delightful game has captured the hearts of many with its charming artwork and engaging gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned card game enthusiast or a complete beginner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the rules, strategies, and everything you need to know to become a Sushi Go! master. So, gather your friends, grab some cards, and let’s dive into the world of delicious sushi!

What is Sushi Go!?

At its core, Sushi Go! is a drafting game where players simultaneously select a card from their hands, pass the remaining cards to the next player, and repeat this process until all cards have been selected. The goal is to collect sets of sushi cards that score points in various ways. Some cards reward players for specific combinations, while others offer points based on the quantity collected. With simple rules and quick rounds, Sushi Go! is addictive and entertaining for players of all ages.

Components of Sushi Go!

Before we delve into gameplay, let’s familiarize ourselves with the components of the game:

• Sushi Cards: These are the core of the game and are divided into several types, each with unique scoring rules. The cards include:
• Maki Rolls: Award points for having the most maki rolls.
• Nigiri: Award points based on their type (Egg, Salmon, Squid), each with different point values. They can also be boosted by Wasabi cards.
• Wasabi: Multiplies the point value of the next nigiri card placed with it.
• Sashimi: Award points for sets of three.
• Tempura: Award points for sets of two.
• Dumpling: Award points based on the quantity collected, with more dumplings giving more points.
• Chopsticks: Allow you to take two cards in one turn, but only when passed to you.
• Pudding: Award points at the end of the game, based on who has the most or least pudding.
• Game Board (Optional): Some editions of the game include a game board for ease of scoring.
• Rulebook: A guide explaining the rules of the game.

Setting Up the Game

Setting up Sushi Go! is quick and straightforward:

1. Shuffle the Cards: Thoroughly shuffle all the sushi cards.
2. Deal Cards: Deal a hand of cards to each player. The number of cards depends on the number of players:
   • 2 Players: 10 cards each
   • 3 Players: 9 cards each
   • 4 Players: 8 cards each
   • 5 Players: 7 cards each
3. Determine First Player: Choose a player to go first, or use a random method.
4. Place Discard Pile: Place a space in the middle of the table for a discard pile.

How to Play Sushi Go! – Step by Step

Now that you’re set up, let’s dive into the step-by-step gameplay:

Phase 1: Pick and Pass

1. Choose a Card: All players simultaneously select one card from their hand. This is the card they will add to their tableau of scored cards.
2. Place Card Face Down: Players place their chosen card face down in front of them and keep it hidden.
3. Pass Hands: After all players have chosen their card, they pass their remaining hand to the next player in a clockwise direction.
4. Reveal Cards: Players now reveal their chosen card at the same time.

Note: After revealing, players should keep their cards organized in front of them so it’s clear what they have.

Phase 2: Collect and Score (During Each Round)

The round continues with players choosing, passing, and revealing cards, as described above. As you collect cards, pay attention to the following scoring rules that apply throughout the round and will give you immediate scores:

Scoring During Play

• Nigiri and Wasabi: Nigiri cards have different point values:
  – Egg Nigiri: 1 point
  – Salmon Nigiri: 2 points
  – Squid Nigiri: 3 points
  – If you play a wasabi card before a nigiri card (meaning the wasabi is already in your tableau before you play the nigiri), the nigiri points are tripled. For example, Wasabi + Salmon Nigiri (2 points) = 6 points. However, a Wasabi card without a nigiri card scores no points. Wasabi cards are scored at the time they are laid.
• Sashimi: You need three sashimi cards for them to score 10 points. If you have two, they’re worth nothing. If you have 4, you score 10 points for the first 3, and the single left over is worth zero. Sashimi cards are scored at the time they are laid, and only in sets of three.
• Tempura: You need two tempura cards for them to score 5 points. If you have one, it’s worth nothing. If you have three, you score 5 points for the first 2, and the single left over is worth zero. Tempura cards are scored at the time they are laid, and only in sets of two.
• Chopsticks: When you draw a chopsticks card, place it in front of you. It is useless until you are passed a hand of cards. On the next turn you may use the chopsticks to pick two cards from the new hand of cards instead of one, and then pass the remaining cards as normal. Discard the chopsticks card once used. If you have more than one chopsticks card, you may use them on separate turns. You do not score points for chopsticks, and they are simply a single turn advantage card.

Scoring at the End of Each Round

• Maki Rolls: At the end of the round, players count the number of maki roll icons they have on their cards. The player with the most maki rolls scores 6 points. The player with the second most scores 3 points. If there’s a tie for first place, the tied players each receive 6 points. If there’s a tie for second, those tied players split 3 points equally. All others get zero. If there’s a tie for first between all players, everyone gets 6 points. If no one has any Maki Rolls at the end of a round, no one scores any points.
• Dumplings: You score points for dumplings based on the number of dumplings you collect:
• 1 Dumpling: 1 point
• 2 Dumplings: 3 points
• 3 Dumplings: 6 points
• 4 Dumplings: 10 points
• 5+ Dumplings: 15 points

These points are totaled at the end of the round.

Phase 3: End of Round and Game

A round ends when all cards in the hands have been selected (there will be one card left over that is discarded at the end of each round). Players total their points from that round, including the card scoring detailed above.

After scoring the current round, start the next round by shuffling all the cards and dealing a new hand.

The game lasts for three rounds. At the end of the third round, there’s a final scoring phase for the pudding cards.

Final Scoring: Pudding

After three rounds, players add up their pudding totals as follows:

• The player with the most pudding cards scores 6 points. If there is a tie, all tied players get 6 points
• The player with the least pudding cards loses 6 points. If there is a tie, all tied players lose 6 points

After the pudding scoring has been completed, players sum their points from all three rounds, including pudding, and the player with the highest total is the winner!

Detailed Scoring Summary

Here’s a summary of all scoring rules for quick reference:

• Nigiri:
  • Egg: 1 point
  • Salmon: 2 points
  • Squid: 3 points
• Wasabi: Triples the next nigiri score if played first.
• Sashimi: 10 points for a set of 3, zero otherwise.
• Tempura: 5 points for a set of 2, zero otherwise.
• Chopsticks: No points awarded. A single use card that allows the user to pick 2 cards on the turn it is used, then discard.
• Maki Rolls: Most get 6 points, second most get 3 points, split ties equally, zero otherwise (scores at the end of the round)
• Dumplings: 1 point for 1, 3 points for 2, 6 points for 3, 10 points for 4, 15 points for 5 or more (scored at the end of the round)
• Pudding: 6 points for most at the end of the game, -6 points for least at the end of the game.

Strategies for Success in Sushi Go!

While Sushi Go! is simple to learn, mastering the game requires some strategic thinking. Here are a few strategies to keep in mind:

1. Watch Your Opponents

Pay attention to what cards other players are collecting. If someone is hoarding maki rolls, it might be wise to try to grab a few as well to at least get some points. Or, if one player is collecting sashimi, pick up a tempura card to at least mitigate their gains. Conversely, avoid collecting cards you see others already hoarding unless you think you will have more than they will.

2. Prioritize Sets and Combinations

Focus on collecting cards that score well together. Wasabi is useless without nigiri, so aim for these as a pair. Similarly, Tempura and Sashimi only score when you have the required amount, so keep an eye on your count.

3. Don’t Neglect Dumplings

Dumpling points can add up quickly. Even if you can’t collect a huge number of them, each dumpling you collect increases your score significantly. They’re a solid way to get a consistent score.

4. Be Flexible

The card drafting nature of the game means you may not get exactly what you want. Be adaptable and adjust your strategy based on the cards you are given. Sometimes switching between collecting one card to another can throw off an opponent, who thinks you may be collecting a certain set.

5. Manage Pudding

Pudding cards can be a game-changer. Aim to collect enough to get the bonus at the end of the game, and avoid being the player with the least, or even try to give as much pudding to one player as you can so that they take the loss for least.

6. Timing is Key

Consider when you use your Chopsticks card. Try to use them when you need to pick from more card options to complete a set, but don’t hold on to them too long, as another player may also collect one.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot

If a strategy isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change your focus. A new hand of cards can open up different possibilities.

Variations of Play

While the core rules of Sushi Go! are consistent, there are a few ways you can vary gameplay:

• Family Friendly Mode: For young children, you could play a simpler version where you don’t score Maki Rolls and the bonus points for highest or lowest pudding is not considered.
• Advanced Mode: You can introduce house rules, such as adding additional scoring rules, or changing the hand sizes for more chaotic play.

Why You’ll Love Sushi Go!

Sushi Go! is a beloved card game for many reasons:

• Easy to Learn: The rules are straightforward, making it easy for new players to jump in and have fun.
• Fast-Paced: Rounds are quick, making it a great choice for short play sessions.
• Engaging Gameplay: The card drafting mechanic keeps players involved and thinking strategically.
• Portable: The compact card deck makes it easy to take on the go.
• Great for All Ages: It’s enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels.
• Adorable Artwork: The cute sushi illustrations add to the game’s charm.

Conclusion

Sushi Go! is more than just a card game; it’s an experience that brings laughter, strategy, and a touch of culinary delight to your game nights. By understanding the rules, experimenting with strategies, and keeping an eye on your opponents, you can become a Sushi Go! master in no time. So, gather your friends and family, shuffle the cards, and get ready to embark on a delicious gaming adventure! Now that you know the basics and some strategies, you can go forth and claim the Sushi Go! victory!