Aqua Tofana 2023

Aqua Tofana is a strategic 18-card game set in 17th-century Italy, themed around the famous poison that gives the game its name. In the game, players simulate a tense dinner between a married couple, with each player taking the role of either poison or antidote. The goal is to have the most cards of their role visible in the playing area by the end of the game. The game's premise revolves around Giulia Tofana, a famed cosmetologist who secretly elaborated and sold lethal poison to abused wives seeking a way out of violent marriages. The game's setting and design evoke a sense of historical tension and social commentary on gender violence and the resilience of women in patriarchal societies.

The game is played with 18 cards, each with poison on one side and antidote on the other. Players then take turns placing cards orthogonally adjacent to existing cards, applying the flipping effect represented on the card played. These effects can cause cards in the playing area to flip, changing the visible role and impacting the game's outcome. The gameplay symbolizes a confrontation between doses of poison and antidote.

Through its historical theme and social commentary, Aqua Tofana brings attention to the enduring fight against gender violence, promoting solidarity and resilience among women. The game’s design and artwork, alongside the unique gameplay mechanics, offer a thoughtful and engaging experience for players while underscoring an important message about equality and justice.

—description from the designer