Day Six: Beat your Neighbour

Last night's challenge was one like no other. Where before we've been lighthearted, fun, silly, and at times serious and political, last night got real. It was tense, like an episode of Spooks. It was nail biting, like reading a Grisham thriller. It was, upon reflection, full of those life-defining moments where things change irrevocably but it isn't until afterwards that you realise nothing will ever be the same again.

We played an epic and exciting card game, called Beat your Neighbour. I won't explain the premise of the game here, but you can find detailed instructions here. Suffice to say, allow ample time to read the instructions properly, and maybe watch a video or two on YouTube if you can't find anyone to play with who has played before. It's a tricky, complicated game, with dozens of loopholes and twists and turns (think Puerto Rico or Citadels). It is worth putting in the hours, though, to master this immeasurably exciting game.

Our cards of choice were the inestimable Waddingtons Number 1 Playing Cards (linen finish, of course), which I have to say suited the purpose admirably. As the package details, the cards were made 'according to a comprehensive specification,' to ensure 'perfect cutting and dealing.' I would wholeheartedly agree with this description and can happily confirm that Waddingtons have done as well as they set out to do with this particular set of cards.

The game itself was, as I've already hinted at, full of suspense, bitter rivalry, and painstaking strategising. There is a variety of skills required to be a good player of Beat your Neighbour, and I am happy to say that I appear to have those necessary skills in plentiful supply. No sooner had Tom laid a, let's say Queen, than I returned with a Jack, and Boom! I win the hand! It takes perseverance and practice to get to be as good as I am, but it can be done.

I would urge you to take up this game, as I would say it's every man's game. But be warned, it's not easy, and at times it's not fun due to the high levels of stress and tension that playing it can bring about, but I would say it's worth it for the joy of beating your neighbour. We had a wonderful time, but next time might choose an easier option like Snap or Uno.