13 Dead End Drive (1993) Board Game

13 Dead End Drive is a murder/mystery board game that was originally released in 1993 by Milton Bradley. The game was later re-released by the Spanish company Bizak. Designed by Michael Marra and David Wyman, the game has players trying to inherit a fortune by being the last surviving heir of a deceased millionaire. With elements of bluffing and deduction, players must navigate through a mansion filled with traps to eliminate their rivals.

Game Components of 13 Dead End Drive

Game Board: A 3D mansion setup with various trap spaces.

Character Cards: Representing 12 characters, each with a matching pawn.

Portrait Cards: Determine the current favorite for the inheritance.

Trap Cards: Used to spring traps and eliminate characters.

Dice: For determining movement.

Detective Card: Advances the detective towards the front door.

Traps: Include a Chandelier, Bookcase, Stairs, a Statue in a suit of armor, and a Fireplace.

Secret Passages: Special spaces for moving characters[5′.

How To Setup 13 Dead End Drive

Setting up the game involves a 7-step process that is separate from the general rules. Players must assemble the 3D mansion, which includes various traps and secret passages. The setup is intricate and requires careful maneuvering, but it is a crucial part of the game’s appeal. The detailed instructions guide players through placing the traps, setting up the board, and distributing the character and portrait cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement: Players roll dice to move any two character pawns on their turn.

Trap Activation: Players can spring traps by playing matching trap cards when a pawn is on a trap space.

Bluffing: Allowed to mislead opponents about which characters are controlled by each player.

Portrait Changes: The portrait above the fireplace changes, often when a player rolls doubles or when the current character is eliminated.

Detective’s Progress: The detective moves towards the front door, signaling the end of the game.

Winning Conditions:
– Be the last character alive.
– Escape the mansion while your character’s portrait is displayed.
– Have your character’s portrait displayed when the detective reaches the front door.

Player Experience

**13 Dead End Drive** is a game that evokes strong nostalgic feelings for many who played it as children. It is praised for its unique blend of strategy and luck, as well as the excitement of setting up and triggering the various traps. Players enjoy the bluffing aspect, which adds a layer of social interaction and deception to the game. However, the setup can be time-consuming and complex, which may deter some players.

Pros

Engaging Gameplay: Combines strategy, luck, and bluffing.

Nostalgic Value: Many players have fond memories of playing this game as children.

Interactive: Encourages social interaction and deception.

Unique Traps: The 3D traps add a physical and fun element to the game.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 9 and above.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful and time-consuming assembly.

Fragile Components: Some pieces can be fragile and prone to breaking.

Luck-Dependent: Some aspects of the game rely heavily on dice rolls and card draws.

Space Requirement: The game board is large and requires significant space to set up.

Personal Thoughts on 13 Dead End Drive

This game is ideal for families and groups looking for a fun, interactive, and slightly quirky board game experience. It appeals to those who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck, and the nostalgic value makes it a great addition to any board game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer simple, quick setups or games with minimal luck involved. Overall, **13 Dead End Drive** is a unique and entertaining game that can provide hours of fun, especially for those who enjoy the old dark house theme and the thrill of triggering booby traps.

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