Both Marvel Snap and Exploding Kittens offer engaging gameplay experiences with unique mechanics and themes. Marvel Snap is a digital collectible card game with quick matches and strategic bluffing, while Exploding Kittens is a physical card game that combines luck and player interaction. The choice depends on whether you prefer a digital or physical game, and whether you prioritize strategic depth or unpredictable fun.
| Attribute | Marvel Snap | Exploding Kittens |
|---|---|---|
| Gameplay Mechanics | Players build decks of 12 cards featuring Marvel characters with unique abilities, cost, and power levels. The game takes place over a maximum of six turns. Players play cards at three randomly assigned locations, each having unique effects. The goal is to win at least two of the three locations by having the highest power at those locations. A key mechanic is the 'Snap,' where players can double the stakes during a match. | Players draw cards until someone draws an Exploding Kitten. If a player draws an Exploding Kitten, they are out of the game unless they have a Defuse card. Other cards in the deck allow players to avoid drawing Exploding Kittens by peeking at cards, shuffling the deck, or forcing opponents to draw multiple cards. |
| Game Complexity | Marvel Snap is designed to be easy to learn but difficult to master. The gameplay is considered relatively simple compared to other collectible card games. However, strategic depth comes from card synergies, reacting to enemy plays, and bluffing with the 'Snap' mechanic. | The game is easy to learn, with the rules taking only a couple of minutes to understand. It combines luck with strategic card management. |
| Card Art and Design | The game features a vast collection of cards with different characters from the Marvel Universe. The card art is considered appealing and thematic, with numerous variants available. | The game features humorous illustrations by The Oatmeal, with quirky and unusual designs. |
| Player Interaction | Players engage in head-to-head battles, playing cards simultaneously. There's direct interaction as players try to predict their opponent's moves and counter their strategies. The 'Snap' mechanic adds a layer of psychological interaction. | There is direct interaction between players through action cards that allow players to steal cards, skip turns, or force others to draw extra cards. Alliances can be made and broken instantly. |
| Replayability | The game maintains replayability through varied card combinations, locations with unique effects, and the 'Snap' mechanic. New cards, locations, and events are added regularly. | The game has high replayability due to the variety of cards and unpredictable nature of the game. Every round is different, and expansion packs add even more variety. |
| Game Length | Matches are designed to be quick, typically lasting around 3-5 minutes. | The average playtime for a single game session is about 15 minutes. |
| Number of Players | The game is primarily designed for single-player and multiplayer modes. | The game is designed for 2-5 players. Some versions and expansions allow for up to 6 or even 10 players. |
| Age Appropriateness | The game is generally considered suitable for ages 9+. Some sources suggest a slightly older age range due to in-app purchases. | The game is suitable for children ages 7 and up. There is also a NSFW (Not Safe For Work) edition with more adult content. |
| Expansion Availability | The game is continuously updated with new cards, locations, season passes, and events. Draft mode is being explored. | Several expansions are available, including Imploding Kittens, Streaking Kittens, and Barking Kittens. These expansions add new cards and mechanics to the game. |
| Portability | Marvel Snap is available on Android, iOS, and Windows, allowing play across different devices. | The game comes in a compact box with only cards and instructions, making it easy to transport. There is also a 2-player edition with a smaller box for even greater portability. |
| Originality | Marvel Snap offers a fresh take on the collectible card game genre with its unique mechanics like the three-lane system, the 'Snap' mechanic, and short match times. | The game has a fun and silly premise, combining elements of Russian Roulette and Uno with a unique theme. |
| Luck Factor | Luck plays a role due to the random card draws and location assignments. However, strategic decision-making and adapting to the situation can mitigate the impact of luck. | While there is some strategy involved, luck plays a significant role in the game. The order in which cards are drawn can greatly affect a player's chances of winning. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | overall: Not available, performance: Not available |