Killer: Vanilla is a fast-paced card game with its tongue firmly in cheek. Players deal out death and destruction in many forms while trying to avoid the onslaught coming back at them. (This game is not recommended for children or those of a sensitive nature: bless 'em.) Kill off the weakest players to improve your hand as you balance defense and gear against a varied offense. Silent scoring heightens the tension... can you take another hit? Are Doctor De'Ath or the Booby Trap in someone's hand? Be the last man standing or take ‘em all with you!
Each turn a player may: make an Attack (Hand to Hand, Ranged, Area, Special) against any other player; play an Equipment card (aid survival); or change any or all cards in hand. Defense cards (Parry, Evade, Flee, Safe House, other) protect against Attacks, while Follow Ups boost damage. Global cards generally apply to all players. If a player gets a killing blow, his hand limit increases and he takes his target's cards. After the first kill, the scoring goes silent, leaving players with only an impression of how close to elimination they are.
Killer:Vanilla is a take-that card game which suits a 'beer & pretzels' mentality more than serious gaming. Play time is about 5 minutes per player, when you are used to the cards. The built-in expansion, The I In Team, adds some more complex solo cards as well as specific cards and rules for Team games.