Alerta Roja (1986) Board Game

Alerta Roja is a board game designed by Isidre Monés and released in in 1986. It falls into the categories of bluffing, deduction, science fiction, and spies/secret agents. The game features secret unit deployment as its main gameplay mechanism, where players must strategically place their units to achieve their objectives.

Game Components of Alerta Roja

Game board representing the sewers of a futuristic city

6 colored playing pieces

Transportation tickets

Start cards

Double-move tokens

Travel log and paper inserts

Storage tray for tickets, start cards, and playing pieces

How To Setup Alerta Roja

To set up Alerta Roja, each player draws start cards to determine their initial locations. The detectives place their tokens on the board according to the cards, while the nuclear terrorist (the equivalent of Mr. X in Scotland Yard) does not reveal their location initially. The terrorist’s location is spaced far enough apart to avoid immediate capture. The setup ensures that the terrorist cannot be caught in the first round of play.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Asymmetric gameplay: One player controls the nuclear terrorist, while the others control secret agents.

Cooperative play for the detectives: They work together to track down the terrorist.

Use of transportation tickets to move around the board.

Periodic revelation of the terrorist’s location to aid the detectives.

Game Objective

The detectives win if they land on the terrorist’s current location or if it becomes impossible for the terrorist to move without being caught.

The terrorist wins by avoiding capture until the detectives exhaust their ticket supplies or reach positions from which they cannot move.

Player Experience

Playing Alerta Roja involves a blend of strategy, tactics, and bluffing. The detectives must coordinate their moves to encircle the terrorist, while the terrorist must evade capture by cleverly using their transportation tickets and hiding their location. The game requires a good balance of teamwork and individual strategy.

Pros

Engaging and challenging gameplay for both the detectives and the terrorist.

Promotes teamwork and strategic thinking among the detective players.

The periodic revelation of the terrorist’s location adds a thrilling element to the game.

Cons

Can be complex for new players due to the asymmetric gameplay and use of tickets.

Requires careful planning and coordination among the detective players.

Personal Thoughts on Alerta Roja

Alerta Roja is ideal for those who enjoy strategic and cooperative games. It is suitable for players aged 10 and above and supports 3 to 6 players. The game’s theme of secret agents and a nuclear terrorist adds a thrilling and futuristic twist to the classic Scotland Yard gameplay. If you are looking for a game that combines teamwork, strategy, and a bit of bluffing, Alerta Roja is a great choice. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer simple, straightforward games.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.