Description

The Cosmic Veil has been pierced. The Elder Gods awaken from their ancient slumber in anticipation of a return to our realm. Cultists around the globe are mobilizing, preparing the Seals to open the Gates, hearkening the Elder Gods return. Their goal, to usher in the Age of Madness! Will you heed the Master’s Call?

Cthulhu: Age of Madness (C:AoM) is a competitive strategy card game for 2-4 players, each assuming the role of Cultists of an Elder God. Azathoth, Cthulhu , Nyarlathotep, and Yog-Sothoth are commanding their minions to unlock the four Seals, open the Cosmic Gate, and create the path for your Elder God to cross the Void and reign Madness upon humanity. Will you be the first to usher in the Age of Madness?

Each player chooses an Elder God Card, and places it in front of them. A Player is chosen to be the dealer, shuffles, and deals 5 cards to each Player. The Player to the Dealers left plays first, and play continues clockwise. On your turn, you perform 2 Actions, and then draw. Actions include playing a card, Sacrificing a Cultist, or Exchanging Cards. A “Pass” is also a valid Action.

Play a Cultist - Play any Cultist to your Pool. Matched Cultists are grouped together.
Play an Elder Sign - Elder Sign unlocks a Seal; Place it on your Elder God, activating its Cosmic Primal Power.
Play a Power Card - Powers are played to the Discard, with the Target chosen by the Player.
Play an Advantage Card - Advantages are played directly to your Pool.
Play an Eldritch Power Card - Eldritch Powers are played to the discard pile, with the Target chosen by the Player.
Sacrifice a Cultist - Send a Cultist from your Pool to the Discard, gaining an instant Convert Cultist Power.
Exchange Cards - A Player can choose to discard their entire hand, or a portion thereof, and redraw to their current Maximum Hand Size (usually 5). This counts as both Actions.

After all Actions have been completed, draw until you have five cards in your hand, and play continues to the left.
Grouping 4 Cultists of your Elder God, in your Pool, unlocks a Seal. Move these cards to your Elder God Card, activating its Cosmic Primal Power. When all 4 Seals have been unlocked, your Elder God’s Gate opens, and you win the game. Congratulations for ushering in the Age of Madness!

—description from the designer