Mai-Star

Mai-Star is a compact, interactive card game in which rival geisha compete to inherit a legendary title. Each player chooses a geisha with a distinct power, then receives a hand of character cards that can be used in two different ways. Playing a character as a promoter raises popularity in one of three talents, making wealthier and more demanding guests eligible to visit later. Playing that same card as a guest earns money and usually triggers an immediate effect that can improve a tableau, disrupt a rival, move cards, or accelerate the round. This dual use makes every card a timing decision: reputation creates access, but only guests produce money, and cards still in hand when someone goes out count against their owner. A round ends as soon as one player empties their hand, after which earnings and penalties are recorded. Three rounds give the asymmetric powers and shifting table politics time to matter without overstaying the game’s welcome.