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27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails (2014) Board Game

ByMichail

27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails is a deduction and party game designed by Manolis Frangidis and released in in 2014. The game is set on a train, where players take on the roles of either passengers trying to reach their destination or a mysterious detective trying to uncover the impostors among them. With a mix of hand management and deduction, players must use their wits to outsmart their opponents and achieve their objectives.

Game Components of 27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails

  • Game Board:** One two-sided game board
  • Train Token:** 1 wooden train token
  • Deduction Sheets:** 50 sheets
  • Passenger Cards:** 27 cards
  • Action Cards:** 36 cards (6 per player)
  • Skill Cards:** 12 cards
  • Disguise Cards:** 18 cards
  • Event Cards:** 12 cards
  • Feature Cards:** 9 cards
  • Initiative Cards:** 6 cards

    How To Setup 27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails

    To set up the game, each player randomly selects a unique character with three characteristics: looks, scent, and voice. Each player receives 6 Action Cards of their preferred color, a deduction sheet, and two Skill Cards. The train is set at the first station, and the Event Cards are shuffled into three decks which are then combined. Passengers, hidden at the start, board the train and are placed next to the board. Initiative is determined using Initiative Cards, which decide who goes first in case of simultaneous actions.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Phases:** The game consists of Station Phase and Travel Phase.
  • Station Phase:** Passengers at the third space on the board are revealed and leave the train, while new passengers board.
  • Travel Phase:** Players perform actions such as scheming (observation and intimidation), using Skill Cards, and assassinating suspected opponents.
  • Objective:** The goal is to be the last player standing before the train reaches its final destination.
  • Mechanics:** Hand Management, Paper-and-Pencil, Player Elimination, Simultaneous Action Selection.
  • Actions:**
  • Scheming:** Players can observe hidden passengers or intimidate passengers to stay or get off the train.
  • Assassination:** Players can attempt to kill suspected opponents, but killing an innocent passenger results in elimination from the game.

    Player Experience

    Playing **27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails** involves a mix of strategy, deduction, and social interaction. Players must gather information carefully to identify their opponents while maintaining a low profile to avoid being targeted. The game’s dynamic, with event cards influencing gameplay, adds an element of unpredictability and excitement.

    Pros

  • Engaging Deduction:** Players must use their wits to identify and eliminate opponents.
  • Variable Setup:** Random character selection and event cards ensure each game is unique.
  • Social Interaction:** Players need to navigate social dynamics to convince innocent passengers to stay or leave.
  • Quick Gameplay:** The 45-minute playtime makes it an accessible addition to game nights.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** The game can be complex for new players due to the multiple mechanics and card types.
  • Player Elimination:** Players can be eliminated early, which may reduce their overall engagement.
  • Need for Deduction Screens:** The game benefits from deduction screens, which were not included in the base game but are available separately.

    Personal Thoughts on 27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails

    This game is ideal for fans of deduction games and social interaction. It is perfect for game nights with a group of friends who enjoy strategic thinking and a bit of bluffing. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer games with less complexity or those who dislike player elimination mechanics. Overall, **27th Passenger: A Hunt on Rails** offers a unique and thrilling experience that challenges players to outwit each other in a tense and exciting ride.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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