Exploding Kittens: Mantis – A fast, cheeky matching card game for 2–6 players

What kind of game is it and what problem does it solve?

Mantis is a quick, push-your-luck card game designed for 2–6 players aged 7 and up. The core idea is straightforward: steal or score by collecting matching sets and trying to outplay your opponents. It’s a light, social option that fits easily into family game nights or casual gatherings, offering a fast-paced alternative to longer strategy games.

How it feels to play on the table

On the table, Mantis delivers a rollercoaster of reactions. The back-and-forth stealing creates lively moments and plenty of banter, which makes it a good fit for mixed-age groups. The rules are simple enough to pick up quickly, but the game invites cautious bluffing and timing, so it’s not just luck. It’s a balance between getting the set you need and denying others what they want, which keeps players engaged without requiring lengthy setup.

What’s included and what that implies

The kit comprises 105 illustrated cards with new mantis shrimp artwork. The visuals are playful and approachable, helping younger players stay engaged while still offering enough clever interactions for adults. An instruction manual is included for a quick start, though a skim is usually sufficient since much of the game emerges from the core mechanic rather than complex rules.

Best suited for and typical scenarios

If you’re after a quick, party-friendly option, Mantis shines at family game nights, casual hangouts, or as a short break during longer sessions. It’s also reasonably portable—great for travel, a weekend away, or a spontaneous game at work. The age range makes it accessible to kids and adolescents, while adults can enjoy the light strategy and social interaction.

What stands out and where it may fall short

On the plus side, the concept is easy to grasp, the pace is brisk, and the social element is strong. The art style is a plus for engagement across ages. However, the game is not the best choice if you’re looking for a deep, strategic experience or a highly competitive, long-form option. If your group prefers more meat to a card-alignment shuffle, you might opt for something with more tactical depth.

For whom this is a good match

Mantis works well for mixed-age households, groups planning a party night, or a quick break during a gathering. It suits players who enjoy light strategy, interactive play, and a fair bit of humour without heavy rules to master.

When to buy and when to pause

You’ll likely value Mantis if you want a fast, social game that’s easy to teach and to play multiple rounds in a single sitting. If you prioritise longer play times, complex scoring, or a higher degree of strategic tension, this may not deliver the depth you want.

Practical checks before purchasing

Consider the space you have for passing cards and players’ seating arrangements, as the back-and-forth stealing works best with a comfortable circle. Check that your group enjoys quick rounds and light competition, otherwise, you may find it starts to feel repetitive after a few sessions.

A practical use-case example

Imagine a family gathering where everyone wants a bit of light competition between homework, chores or after-dinner chatter. You’ll likely grab Mantis for 10–15 minutes of play between quieter activities, laugh at the quick steals, and move on to the next round without a wall of rules slowing you down.

Quick comparison context

If you’re deciding between a simple matching game and something more strategic, Mantis sits in the middle for pace: slower than pure memory games, faster than Gin Rummy-style titles. It’s a good compromise when you want family-friendly dynamics with a social edge rather than solitary tasking.

FAQ (quick practical notes)

• Is it suitable for very young players? Yes, the game is designed for ages 7+.
• How long does a typical round take? About 10 minutes to play, with multiple rounds possible in a session.
• Can adults enjoy it without kids present? Absolutely, the humour and quick back-and-forth tend to entertain adults too.

Is it worth it?

Worth considering if you want a light, fast‑moving party game that’s easy to pick up and doesn’t demand long setup or deep strategy. It’s a solid pick for casual gatherings and family nights, but not the best choice if you crave a more substantial strategic challenge or longer play sessions.