Outrage! Steal the Crown Jewels (1992)

Outrage!

Outrage! is a board game created in 1992 by Imperial Games. The game is set in the Tower of London and challenges players to steal the British Crown Jewels. The game is based on the real-life attempt to steal the jewels in 1671 by Thomas Blood and his accomplices.

Why is Outrage! Popular?

Outrage! is a popular game due to its unique theme and Gameplay Mechanics of Outrage!. The game challenges players to use strategy and cunning to steal the Crown Jewels while avoiding the Yeoman Warders. The game has also gained popularity due to its deluxe version, which features handcrafted jewels of genuine precious metals and stones, making it the most expensive board game in the world at £7995 (approximately $15,000 US).

Game Components of Outrage Steal the Crown Jewels

Board: Depicts the Tower of London.

Tower Cards: Include burglary tools, weapons, armor, and disguise cards.

Crown Jewels: Miniature representations of St. Edward’s Crown, Prince of Wales’ Crown, Orb, Sword, and Sceptre.

Coins: Used for player tracking.

Flags: Implement per player placed in the Queen’s House.

Yeomen Warders: Figures representing the guards.

Dice: Used for rolling to steal jewels and escape.

Travel Version: Slimline pack with magnetic board and counters, half-size playing cards.

How To Setup Outrage Steal the Crown Jewels

Setup involves shuffling all the cards and dealing six Tower Cards to each player. Each player places one coin on Devereux Tower, and the Yeomen Warders and Crown Jewels are placed as indicated on the board. One flag implement per player is placed in the Queen’s House. Players begin at the Queen’s House, ready to start their thieving adventure.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Players must steal and escape with the Crown Jewels.

Game Versions: Short version – first player to escape with any jewel wins; long version – player with the highest total value of stolen jewels wins, with St. Edward’s Crown breaking ties.

Stealing Jewels: Players must move to the White Tower, land on a square corresponding to a Crown Jewel, possess at least one burglary tool, and roll a sum equal to or greater than the difference between 12 and the sum of the tool values.

Avoiding Guards: Players must present a disguise card to pass Yeomen Warders or risk being sent to the Bloody Tower.

Attacking Other Players: Players can attack each other for jewels and money using weapons and armor cards.

Escaping: Players must roll an exact count die to escape to the Ferry.

Player Experience

Outrage Steal the Crown Jewels offers a thrilling experience where strategy and luck are equally important. Players must navigate the board carefully, acquiring the right tools and avoiding the Yeomen Warders. The game allows for two main strategies: either go for a jewel directly or wait for another player to steal one and then attack them. This dynamic adds an edge of unpredictability and excitement to the game.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The historical and fictional blend of stealing the Crown Jewels makes for an intriguing and unique theme.

Multiple Strategies: Players can choose between direct theft or opportunistic attacks, adding depth to the gameplay.

Interactive Elements: The game involves direct player interaction through attacks and defenses, enhancing social interaction.

Variable Playtime: The game can be played in either a short or long version, catering to different play preferences.

Cons

Luck-Dependent: Success in stealing jewels and escaping depends significantly on dice rolls, which can be frustrating.

Complex Rules: The game has several intricate rules, which may take time to learn and master.

Component Risk: The miniature jewels can be lost or broken if not handled carefully.

Personal Thoughts on Outrage Steal the Crown Jewels

Outrage Steal the Crown Jewels is ideal for those who enjoy strategic and interactive games with a touch of luck. It’s particularly fun with a larger number of players, as it encourages more interactions and competitive play. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking purely strategic games without luck elements, it offers a unique and entertaining experience that combines historical intrigue with fun gameplay mechanics.

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