1. Introduction
The Mind Natureline is a cooperative card game designed for 2 to 4 players, aged 8 years and up. This game is an experiment in team communication, where players must work together to complete levels without verbal communication. The Natureline edition is 100% plastic-free, featuring FSC certified paper decks and packaging.
The objective is to play all cards in ascending order across multiple levels. Success relies on non-verbal cues and synchronized thinking.
2. Components
The game box contains the following items:
- 120 Playing Cards (numbered 1-100, Level cards, Life cards, Shuriken cards)
- Instruction Manual
Image 1: The Mind Natureline game box, showing the front cover with the game title and a rabbit character.
3. Setup
- Player Count and Starting Lives/Shurikens:
- 2 Players: Start with 2 Lives and 1 Shuriken.
- 3 Players: Start with 3 Lives and 1 Shuriken.
- 4 Players: Start with 4 Lives and 1 Shuriken.
- Level Cards: Place the Level cards in a face-up stack, starting with Level 1 on top.
- Life and Shuriken Cards: Place the designated number of Life and Shuriken cards face-up in a separate area, accessible to all players.
- Number Cards: Shuffle all 100 number cards (1-100) thoroughly.
- Dealing Cards (Level 1): For Level 1, each player receives 1 card. Players keep their cards secret.
Image 2: Game components, including number cards and level cards, neatly arranged within the game box.
4. Operating Instructions (Gameplay)
4.1. Game Objective
The goal is for players to collectively complete a series of levels. To complete a level, all players must play their hand cards face-up in a single discard pile, in ascending numerical order. Players cannot communicate verbally or through any pre-arranged signals.
4.2. Playing a Level
- Start: At the beginning of each level, all players place their hands on the table. When everyone is ready, they simultaneously remove their hands, signaling the start of the level.
- Playing Cards: Players play their lowest card from their hand onto the central discard pile whenever they feel it is the right time. There are no turns.
- No Communication: Players must not speak, gesture, or give any explicit signals about their cards.
- Mistakes: If a player plays a card, and another player still holds a lower card, the game stops. The player who held the lower card must immediately play it. The team loses one Life card. All cards played incorrectly are removed from the game. The level then resumes.
- Completing a Level: If all players successfully play all their cards in ascending order without losing all Lives, the level is completed.
4.3. Rewards for Completing Levels
Upon successfully completing certain levels, the team earns rewards:
- Level 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9: Gain 1 Shuriken.
- Level 4, 7, 10: Gain 1 Life.
The number of cards dealt to each player increases by one for each new level. For example, in Level 2, each player receives 2 cards; in Level 3, 3 cards, and so on.
4.4. Special Cards: Shurikens
A Shuriken can be used by any player at any time during a level. To use a Shuriken, a player raises their hand. If all players agree (by also raising their hands), one Shuriken card is discarded. Then, all players immediately discard their lowest card face-up onto the discard pile. This can help clear lower cards and prevent mistakes.
Image 3: Various game cards, including number cards, a Level card, and a Shuriken card, laid out on a surface.
4.5. Game End
The game ends in one of two ways:
- Victory: The team successfully completes all target levels (e.g., Level 12 for 2 players, Level 10 for 3 players, Level 8 for 4 players).
- Defeat: The team loses its last Life card.
Image 4: A close-up of the game box and several cards, including a Level 6 card and a Shuriken card.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity of your game components:
- Store cards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid bending or creasing the cards.
- Keep cards away from liquids and food to prevent stains.
- Return all components to the game box after each use for safekeeping.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1. Missing Components
If any components are missing upon opening the game, please contact NSV customer support for assistance.
6.2. Difficulty with Gameplay
The Mind is a game that requires practice and synchronization. If your team is struggling, consider these tips:
- Patience: Wait for a moment before playing a card, especially if you have a high number.
- Rhythm: Try to establish a mental rhythm with your teammates.
- Eye Contact: Use subtle eye contact to gauge readiness, but avoid explicit signals.
- Shuriken Use: Don't hesitate to use Shurikens when multiple low cards are held by different players.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 5305 |
| Product Dimensions | 5.35 x 4.02 x 0.91 inches |
| Item Weight | 9.7 ounces |
| Manufacturer Recommended Age | 8 years and up |
| Players | 2-4 |
| Playing Time | Approximately 20 minutes |
| Release Date | July 12, 2021 |
| Material | 100% FSC certified paper (plastic-free) |
8. Warranty Information
Specific warranty details are not provided in the product information. For inquiries regarding product defects or warranty claims, please contact the manufacturer directly.
9. Support and Contact
For further assistance, questions, or to report missing components, please visit the official NSV website or contact their customer service department.
- Official Website (Natureline): https://nsv-spiele.de/natureline/
- General NSV Games Website: https://nsv-games.com/natureline/
- Manufacturer: Nürnberger-Spielkarten-Verlag GmbH
