The Idea
I'm drawn to simplicity. What interested me was how minimalist a game can be while still remaining engaging. I was inspired by the classic "argument" kids often have:
– No!
– Yes!
.. And so on, endlessly.
Could that rhythm be used for a game? Are those two words enough? Is it enough just to repeat them? Maybe the design could follow the same path: only those two words on the cards, no theme, no colors at all? Yes, I believe it worked.
Interestingly, a developed version of the game was later released in Hungary—this time with a theme, nicely illustrated, still built on chanting, rhythm, concentration, and reaction. But in the classic sense, it had become a product. For me, though, I still prefer the original, where the core idea remained in its most essential form.
About the Game
👥 Players
2-5 players
⏱️ Duration
15-20 minutes
🎯 Age
5-6+ years
It's a party game, though best suited for 2–5 players. The playtime is short—about 15–20 minutes—and it's perfectly playable from around age 5–6, since the two words also work as pictures, making them easy for kids to tell apart even without reading.
⚠️ Attention! It starts off slowly, but then turns loud and three times the chaos—while still demanding a lot of focus.
Game Designer: Máté Lencse, co-owner of Playwise
How to Play
Shuffle the Yes and No cards and deal them out evenly to everyone. Then flip over a challenge card, and the game begins. Players take turns flipping cards in front of them: each flipped card is spoken out loud—"Yes" or "No"—and everyone who has the same word face-up must say it too.
Meanwhile, you have to keep an eye on the challenge card, because if its condition is met, you need to slap the center quickly.
Indeed, it's a loud game—but really, all you'll hear is: Yes, No, Yes, No...
Fun Fact
In 2024, the game even became part of a theatrical board game performance. It was incredible to see 40–50 people playing at the same time—first in small groups, then joining together, all chanting:
- Yes
- No...
Free Download
Free Download Available
The game is available for free download and can be played, but if you feel inclined to support the game designer, you can do so on their Patreon page - even with just $1.