How is this different from Avalon or The Resistance?
Trial of Lotus builds on the social deduction foundation you know, but with several meaningful twists: group formation uses a Sun & Moon token draw system instead of fixed leader picks, a Ruyi Token lets players actively intervene in who enters a Trial, and there’s a midgame Cleanse Ritual elimination phase. The evil side also has more flexibility, leading to bolder bluffing and less predictable play. The endgame features a hidden inheritance mechanic ‘seed of ascension’, even if the Lotus falls, the game isn’t over.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
What player count does this work best at?
Trial of Lotus is designed for 6–12 players and plays best with 8–10. It is not currently designed for 2–3 players, the social deduction dynamics require a larger group to create genuine uncertainty and tension.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
Is there a rulebook available?
Yes! The rulebook is available on the Kickstarter page. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YhwRM256b3Y74K3WgNDS6UUyn9DB0tBN/view?usp=drive_link
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
Will there be expansions in the future?
I’d love to! After more players have experienced the base game, character expansions and additional event cards are definitely something I’m considering. Stay tuned.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:58
Is there a player aid card for new players?
I’m designing a printable PDF player aid card that will be available for download. Watch for updates!
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
The game is described as Chinese-inspired, but some terms like Kirin and Kiku seem Japanese, why?
Great observation. The world of Trial of Lotus draws from a broader East Asian mythological tradition. Names like Kirin (麒麟) and Kiku (菊) exist in both Chinese and Japanese cultures, but I chose the Japanese phonetic renderings because they’re more accessible to English-speaking players. Qílín and Júhuā are harder to pronounce and read at a glance. This was a deliberate design choice for accessibility, not a cultural oversight.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
The game mentions tarot cards, is this a spiritual or occult game?
Trial of Lotus is a work of fantasy fiction inspired by East Asian mythology and aesthetics. The tarot-like card structure is a gameplay and visual metaphor, purely aesthetic reference. The game has no religious or occult intent.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:58
Why isn't the Deluxe version available in a smaller box like the Standard?
The Deluxe edition includes 42 metal coins and premium components that require a larger box to be stored and displayed properly. The presentation is intentional. The metal coins especially deserve a home that does them justice. When you hold them, you’ll understand.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
Can I get the metal coins as a standalone add-on with the Standard or Traveler's edition?
The metal coins are the centerpiece of the Deluxe edition and are priced as part of that package. Separating them logistically isn’t feasible, the smaller box simply isn’t designed to fit them, and the Deluxe box has better liners to protect them. The Deluxe edition is the best way to get them.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
Is this made with AI art?
No. Every card, token, and component in Trial of Lotus was hand-illustrated by me, Yangtian Li, a Seattle-based independent artist and game designer. No AI was used in the creation of any artwork.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 19:57
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