Quest for Arete (Playtest Edition)

Quest for Arete (Are-a-Tay) is an Elemental card game of sorcery and duels. This beautifully illustrated game is suitable for players age 12 and up. The game is designed to be simple to learn, but with multiple layers of complexity that may be added based on player experience and ability. In the game, each player is a sorcerer’s apprentice charged by their master to make their way in the world seeking to increase their Arete – or excellence.

The back story of the game sets it in the pre-history of modern chemistry when magicians and sorcerers were actually trained in the undiscovered properties of the natural elements.

As an apprentice, you must duel any other sorcerer you meet using magical elements (represented by the cards) that combine make potions and spells. Each duel, won or lost, increases your experience and understanding of the elements and therefore, increases your Arete.

With additional rules applied, the challenge increases as players contemplate element stacking, spell interactions, time constraints, character cards and special character abilities. Decks are custom built by the player to suite their style of play and the strengths of their chosen character.

The game is available in a Starter Set that contains everything needed for two players. The kit includes 2 play mats, a full-color 24-page rule book, a timer, 4 character cards, two starter decks (identical) and two expansion decks (unique).

Once they learn the basics using their starter decks, the players can duel for first draw from Expansion Deck A. Each player chooses 5 new elements and customizes their deck. They may then duel again for first pick until Expansion A is depleted. As they repeat this process with Expansion B, their decks become more and more different - focusing on their unique preferences and character strengths.

Did they choose wisely? Have they mastered the elements and gained Arete?

Can you do better?

Quest for Arete can range from a simple game to high levels of complexity that will satisfy even the most avid gamer!