Exploding Kittens Mantis card game — 2–6 players, portable 105-card party game with quick 10–20 min rounds

Mantis is a fast, portable party card game from Exploding Kittens where 2–6 players steal and score matching sets to outwit one another.

Compact and colorful, Mantis delivers short, social rounds built around a single clever tension: will you swipe a set from another player or lock in points for yourself? Designed for ages 7 and up, the game mixes simple rules with tactical choices so new players learn quickly while groups still find depth across repeated plays.

How does Mantis play in five minutes?

Rounds move rapidly because each turn forces a choice between two actions: Steal or Score. That binary decision keeps turns short, makes the table lively, and produces dramatic swings as cards change hands.

• Steal — take a card from another player to complete sets.
• Score — claim points by locking in matching cards from your hand.
• Short rounds — most games finish in 10–20 minutes.
• Easy setup — just shuffle the 105-card deck and deal.

What makes the cards and artwork special?

Mantis features 105 original cards illustrated with quirky mantis shrimp-themed art that gives the game a playful, distinctive personality. The imagery helps players quickly recognize sets and adds charm to each steal and score moment.

• Bright, readable card faces for quick identification.
• Unique mantis shrimp illustrations that double as conversation starters.
• Durable cardstock suitable for frequent shuffling and travel.
• Instruction booklet included for a fast learning curve.

How does Mantis fit into parties, family nights, or travel?

Mantis is intentionally flexible: its compact box and brisk playtime make it ideal for slipping into a backpack, pulling out at a party, or filling a gap in a family game lineup. Because it accommodates 2–6 players, it works for couples, small groups, or larger gatherings when combined with multiple copies.

• Portable — small box fits easily in a bag or desk drawer.
• Group-friendly — good for 2–6 players across age ranges.
• Quick rounds — keeps party momentum without long downtime.
• Versatile — suitable for breaks at work, travel, or camping.

Is Mantis easy to teach to kids and new gamers?

Yes — the core rules are deliberately minimal, so children and adults pick them up fast. The strategic layer emerges as players learn when to risk stealing versus securing points, giving repeat players more to explore without overwhelming newcomers.

• Two-rule structure simplifies teaching and learning.
• Recommended for ages 7+ with family-friendly content.
• Instruction manual concise and user-friendly.
• Encourages social interaction and light tactical thinking.

Who this is for: Mantis is for anyone who wants a lively, social card game that’s quick to learn and fun to replay — families seeking a short yet engaging game, friends who enjoy light competition at parties, and travelers who need a compact, entertaining option. Fans of Exploding Kittens and whimsical artwork will appreciate the design, while anyone who likes fast-paced card play will find Mantis a welcome addition to their collection.