Okay, so I finally got my hands on Splendor Duel, and let me tell you—it’s *chef’s kiss*. If you loved the original Splendor but wanted something more intense for two players, this is it.

The gem-collecting madness is still there, but now there are new ways to win—like stacking 10 gems of the same color or collecting crowns (yes, crowns!). The pearl gem adds a fun twist, though some say it’s OP. Pro tip: gold can count as pearls, so don’t stress too much.

What I love? The portability. The box is small enough to toss in a bag for café dates or trips. Plus, games wrap up in about 30 minutes—perfect for pre-bedtime brain battles with my partner.

Fair warning: The rules *look* intimidating at first glance, but after one playthrough, it clicks. Just remember: the lines on the board dictate coin replacement order. Boom—expert status unlocked.

If you dig games like Jaipur or 7 Wonders Duel, this is a must-buy. It’s simple to learn but packed with strategy. And the art? Gorgeous. The gem tokens feel luxe. 10/10 would duel again.