Chu Han
Chu Han is a two-player card game of dynastic intrigue set in ancient China before and during the Chu-Han Contention, 206-202 BCE.
Two clans, the Han and Chu, vie to supplant the weak Qin ruler and forge China's first true dynasty. Historically, the Chu began in a stronger position, but the Han managed to defeat them.
Chu Han is a trick-taking, climbing, and shedding game consisting of multiple hands. Players begin each hand with a mixture of Chu and Han cards, representing strains within clans, hostage taking, and shifting allegiances. Optional Events and two historical campaigns provide additional variety.
Can you outmaneuver your rival to found a new dynasty?
Number of players: 2
Game duration: 30 mn
Complexity: 2 / 5
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Play Chu Han and 1249 other games online.
No download necessary - play directly from your web browser.
With your friends and thousands of players from the whole world.
Free.
Rules summary
Chu Han
Chu Han is a tactical card game for 2 players (Han vs. Chu), simulating the historical conflict to claim the empire through card combinations and legendary characters.
Game Objective
Be the first to reach 10 or more Victory Points (VP). Points are awarded at the end of each round based on won campaigns and remaining hand cards.
Game Setup
- One player represents the Han (Blue), the other the Chu (Red).
- The deck consists of Troop cards (Values 1–9) in various colors and special Character cards.
- Each player starts with a hand of 9 cards.
Gameplay
The game is played over several rounds. Each round consists of two phases:
1. Marching Phase (Preparation)
During this phase, players prepare their forces:
- Players can draw or swap cards to optimize their hand for the upcoming battle.
- Event cards may be played, triggering immediate effects or altering combat rules.
2. Campaign Phase (Combat)
The core of the game. Players take turns playing Melds (combinations):
- Single Card: A single Troop or Character card.
- Pair/Three-of-a-Kind: Cards of the same value.
- Sequence: At least three cards of consecutive values in the same color (e.g., 3-4-5 in Yellow).
- Rule: A played meld must beat the opponent's previous meld in strength (higher value or stronger combination type).
Actions & Character Abilities
In addition to numerical values, many cards feature icons that trigger actions:
- Retreat: Allows you to return a previously played card to your hand.
- Reinforce: Draw an additional card from the deck.
- Spy: Look at the opponent's hand or steal a card from them.
- Eliminate: Remove a card from the opponent's current display.
Key Categories & Symbols
- Troops (1-9): The foundation for all combinations.
- Characters: Unique cards with powerful effects that can shift the momentum.
- Dynasty Bonus: Cards of your own color (Blue for Han, Red for Chu) often provide stronger bonuses or score better.
End of Round & Scoring
A round ends when one player plays all their hand cards or both players pass consecutively.
- The winner of the campaign gains points for their played combinations.
- The loser deducts points for any cards remaining in their hand.
- If a player reaches the 10-point threshold, the game ends immediately.
Strategic Considerations
- Timing: When is the best moment to play powerful characters to force the opponent to pass?
- Hand Management: Should I hold low cards for sequences or use them for quick tactical actions?