
- BGG rank
- BGG #116
- BGG rating
- 7.8
Decrypto
- 3–8 players
- 15–45 min
- Complexity 1.8/5
- 2018

1993
Rules assistance for Inklings
Plain-language explanations of turns, card effects and disputed situations, with official source references and saved question history.

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Answers come from the official rulebook, with the page to check.
Inklings is a board game released in 1993 for 4–6 players, 45 minutes per game, and ages 12 and up.
This game received Games Magazine's Game of the Year award in 1993. Players form two teams of at least two players (equipment is provided for six total, although more players can be added if you improvise). Each player is given a card with seven words in a category, and a wipe-off board with space for clues for each of them. Players then attempt to write the shortest possible clues for their seven words. In turn, each player puts his or her board in the display rack. After announcing the category, their teammates have a limited amount of time to guess the words. If any are left unanswered, the other team is given a single shot to guess each word Won Games Magazine Game of the Year award in 1993. 1993 Mensa Select
Inklings supports 4–6 players according to the catalogue. This range comes from the publisher’s listed player count, so the game can be set up for any group size within it. Some setups, rules and scoring details may still vary by player count, so check your edition’s rulebook for the exact configuration.
The listed playing time for Inklings is 45 minutes. This is the publisher’s estimate for a full game. The actual duration depends on the group, the player count and familiarity with the rules: first sessions usually run longer, while experienced groups often finish faster. Setup and teaching time are not included in this estimate.
The catalogue lists Inklings for ages 12 and up. This is the publisher’s recommendation and reflects reading demands, rule complexity and small components rather than theme alone. Younger players can often join with help from an adult, so check the age guidance on your edition and consider your group’s experience with board games.
Inklings has a complexity rating of 1.5 out of 5 from BoardGameGeek players, which makes it a light game. The rating reflects how much rules knowledge, planning and decision-making a typical game demands. Expect a longer first teach for heavier games, and use a preparation guide before game night.
Inklings belongs to these categories: Word Game and Party Game. Categories describe the theme, setting and style of a game rather than its rules. Filter the catalogue by the same category to find similar games when you enjoyed Inklings and want something comparable for your next game night.
The catalogue lists Inklings as a base game. It can be played on its own with the components in the box and does not require any other title. Expansions, if any exist, add new content or rules on top of it and are listed separately in the catalogue with a link back to this base game.