How to Set Up Swindler's Chest for First Play

Quick answer

Unbox your Swindler's Chest, organize the components using the included trays, and decide whether to play Emerald Skulls or Goblin Vaults first.

Step-by-step setup for Swindler's Chest

1. Unbox and inspect contents: Open the Swindler's Chest and remove the playmat, trays, and all card decks and tokens. Check that you have the Emerald Skulls and Goblin Vaults components. The box is larger than standard game boxes, so give yourself table space. Keep the rulebooks separate—each game has its own rules, and mixing them up is a common mistake.
2. Choose your first game: Decide whether to play Emerald Skulls or Goblin Vaults first. Both games share the same chest but have different objectives and mechanics. If you're new to both, start with Emerald Skulls—it's simpler and teaches the core bluffing and deduction loop. Do not combine components from both games during setup. Each game uses its own cards and tokens.
3. Set up the playmat: Unfold the double-sided playmat and place it with the correct side facing up for your chosen game. One side is for Emerald Skulls, the other for Goblin Vaults. The playmat shows where to place cards and tokens, so use it as a guide. Check the playmat orientation before you start placing components—it's easy to use the wrong side.
4. Organize components with the trays: Use the three plastic trays to sort tokens, dice, and small pieces. Each tray has compartments that fit the chest's interior. Place the trays on the table near the playmat so everything is within reach. The trays also help during cleanup. Don't skip the trays—they prevent pieces from rolling off the table and speed up future setups.
5. Prepare the card decks: Separate the card decks for your chosen game. Shuffle each deck and place them in their designated spots on the playmat. If you use card sleeves, the larger chest box accommodates sleeved cards without bending. Double-check that you're using the correct deck for the game you selected. Mixing decks is the most common setup error.
6. Review the rulebook for your game: Read the rulebook for Emerald Skulls or Goblin Vaults before you start. The chest includes both rulebooks, so grab the one that matches your chosen game. Focus on turn structure and win conditions. Do not rely on memory from the other game—each has unique rules even though they share a chest.

What's in the box

• Swindler's Chest (Emerald Skulls + Goblin Vaults): The Swindler's Chest includes all gameplay content from Emerald Skulls and Goblin Vaults, plus a double-sided playmat and three plastic trays for easy game setup and storage. You get two complete games in one box, and the trays keep everything organized so you can set up faster and avoid losing small pieces.