Match-a-lotl

Match-a-lotl is a fast and fun micro matching game for two (2) players, created by Once Upon a Game. Race to collect three matching axolotls before your opponent. Win three rounds, and you win the game! Easy to learn but tricky to master, it’s the perfect pick for a quick match with a friend or a fun challenge on date night.

Take one of each type of Sleeping Axolotl card from the deck. Split the removed cards into two identical piles. Shuffle each pile, then deal three cards face-up to each player. Shuffle the two remaining cards. Place one into the game bag. Return the other card to the deck. Shuffle the deck. Lay out 18 cards face-down in a 3 by 6 grid (see above). Place the last card into the game bag without revealing it. Finally, give each player five bug tokens.

The youngest player goes first.

Players take turns trying to collect three Sleeping Axolotls of the same color. On your turn, secretly look at one face-down card from the grid. Then, choose one of the following actions:

BUG IT! – Put the card back face-down and place one of your bug tokens on it. A card with a bug token is locked. No one can look at it or use it until the token is removed.

PLAY IT! – Flip the card face-up. Find its matching illustration on the AXOLOTL KEY below. Follow the instructions shown there.

After completing your action, your turn ends. Play passes to the next player.

The first player to collect three (3) matching sleeping Axolotl's wins!