Escape from the Starline Express (2019) Board Game

Escape from the Starline Express is a cooperative deduction board game that was released in in 2019. Designed by Alessandro Deriu, this game challenges players to work together to solve a murder mystery and escape the Starline Express train before it reaches its final destination. With a runtime of 90 minutes and recommended for ages 12 and up, this game is perfect for players who enjoy puzzle-solving and real-time challenges.

Game Components of Escape from the Starline Express

9 mystery envelopes: Each envelope represents a different train carriage and contains puzzles and clues.

Instruction booklet: Guides players on how to start and progress through the game.

Train compartment cards: These cards are folded and must be done in order, with each leading to the next.

Puzzle elements: Include identification cards, clock face equations, and rotation logic puzzles.

Story dialogue: Several pages of leaflet dialogue to read aloud, enhancing the story-driven experience.

How To Setup Escape from the Starline Express

To set up the game, players begin by identifying the starting envelope, marked by folding down the top of each pack to find the one that states “start here.” The remaining envelopes are then arranged in sequence, each indicating which room to progress from after completing the previous puzzle.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Linear progression: Players solve puzzles in a linear sequence, with each puzzle leading to the next envelope.

Puzzle-solving: Involves a variety of puzzles such as identification card puzzles, clock face equations, and rotation logic.

Story integration: Players read aloud from a story-driven dialogue, adding to the immersive experience.

Objective: Solve the puzzles in each train compartment to uncover the mystery of the stolen Black Widow diamond and complete the investigation.

Player Experience

**Escape from the Starline Express** is designed to engage 2+ players for approximately 90 minutes. The game is praised for its high-quality materials and entertaining gameplay, although it can be too easy for experienced puzzle solvers. The game starts out fun but can become complex, especially with the inclusion of math problems. Players enjoy the story-driven dialogue and the immersive theme of investigating a diamond theft on a 1920s train from London to Paris.

Pros

High-quality materials: Well-made and nicely constructed components.

Entertaining: Engaging storyline and fun puzzles.

Beginner-friendly: Suitable for those new to escape room games.

No destruction required: Can be shared with friends multiple times.

Immersive theme: A compelling 1920s train setting with a diamond theft mystery.

Cons

Too easy for pros: Experienced puzzle solvers may find it too straightforward.

Linear structure: Lack of non-linear challenges can make the game less engaging for some.

Complex math problems: Some puzzles involve complicated math, which can be frustrating.

Long gameplay: The 90-minute duration can be tiring for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Escape from the Starline Express

**Escape from the Starline Express** is ideal for beginners in the escape room genre or those looking for a light, fun puzzle game. It’s a great choice for families or small groups who enjoy collaborative puzzle-solving. However, experienced puzzle enthusiasts might find it too simple and lacking in challenge. Overall, it provides a solid, if not spectacular, escape room experience with a charming theme and well-crafted components.

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