"Wizard Camelot" Rationale

 The rationale for “Wizard Camelot”

Why is a new version needed?
The initiative originated with “U.S. Games Systems”. The market place will determine whether or not players welcome the introduction of a more nuanced version.

Why the “Camelot” Theme?
The 4 Wizard cards and 4 Jester cards added to the regular deck complemented the Jack, Queen, King cards. They all represent characters found in a royal court setting. The Camelot setting continues the concept of ‘court cards’.

Why are the deuces eliminated?
Ans. To keep the deck at 60 cards. This is cost-effective and also keeps the final hand as a No-Trump hand as all of the cards are dealt out.

Why does the “No Even Bids” feature not begin until hand number 5?
Ans. To avoid players being forced to make impossible and/or illogical bids.
e.g.  Player “A” bids zero. Player “B” bids zero. Player “C” holding a Wizard cannot bid ‘1’.

Why can a player continue to bid zero to make it an “Even Bid” even after hand number 4?
Ans. Again, it is to avoid a player being forced to make an illogical bid.
e.g. In a 6-player game, in hand number 5 the first 5 players have bid a total of 5 tricks with Clubs as the trump suit. Player 6 holds; Jester, 4 and 5 of Hearts, 7 of Spades and 3 of Diamonds. The only logical bid is Zero and that bid must be allowed even though it makes it an even bid.

Rationale for the 4 New Cards
Merlin (Magician) This card simply adds a further element of strategy. It can be played either as a Jester or as a Wizard.
Excalibur (Sword) This card also provides further opportunities for strategy. It can be used either to defend a position or to attack an opponent.
Morgan le Fay (Enchantress) This card makes the 4 Wizard cards vulnerable. It becomes the most powerful card in the game. Yet, it too is vulnerable.
Holy Grail (Chalice) The holder of this card must play it with care as its power is dependent on when it is played.
Bottom Line:  All 4 cards afford opportunities for strategic play.

Why are the 4 new special cards needed?
Ans. They are not needed if you enjoy the challenge of the regular game. However, many players have mastered the niceties of the regular name. The new cards provide a higher level of strategy and skill which will provide a challenge to even the best players. Each of the four Wizard cards are a guaranteed trick in the regular game. In “Wizard Camelot” there are no ‘sure tricks’ as even the most powerful card can fail to win a trick.

Will “Wizard Camelot” be available as another option for online play and tournaments?
Ans. Programming is expensive, especially on a website that generates no income.
Cost is an important factor but the determining factor will be the popularity of “Wizard Camelot”.
Significant retail sales combined with a positive online reception would result in an online version.