Blood on the Clocktower (2022) Board Game

Blood on the Clocktower is a social deduction board game that was first released in 2022 by The Pandemonium Institute. Designed by Steven Medway, this game has quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of bluffing, deduction, and hidden role mechanics. With stunning artwork by Micaela Dawn, Aidan Roberts, John Van Fleet, and Grace VanFleet, Blood on the Clocktower immerses players in a world of mystery and intrigue.

Game Components of Blood on the Clocktower

Player Roles: Each player receives a secret role with a unique ability, divided into good (Townsfolk, Outsiders) and evil (Minions, Demon) roles.

Scripts: Predefined sets of characters separated into scripts, ensuring balanced gameplay.

Grimoire: A tool for the Storyteller to keep track of characters and abilities.

Tokens and Manuals: Gorgeously printed manuals and tokens, with the box serving as the Storyteller’s tome.

Additional Materials: Guide sheets for every player, felt-lined box to keep components organized.

How To Setup Blood on the Clocktower

Setup involves the Storyteller selecting a script featuring 22-25 characters and determining which roles will be in play. The number of Minions and Outsiders depends on the player count. Players can also play as Travellers if they are uncertain about their availability or enter late. All players know the character of the Traveller but not their alignment.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Hidden Roles: Players have secret roles with unique abilities.

Deduction: Players must deduce each other’s roles through discussion and observation.

Betting and Bluffing: Players, especially evil ones, use bluffing and misinformation to achieve their goals.

Voting: Players vote to execute a player during the day phase.

Night Phase Actions: Specific players perform actions at night, guided by the Storyteller.

Game Objective

Good Team: Execute the Demon to win.

Evil Team: Keep the Demon alive until only two players remain.

Player Experience

**Blood on the Clocktower** fosters a dynamic and interactive environment where players must trust, deceive, and deduce to win. The game encourages social interaction, creativity in bluffing, and strategic thinking. Even dead players continue to participate, casting a final vote and remaining part of the conversation.

Pros

Engaging Social Interaction: Encourages trust, deception, and teamwork among players.

Variety of Roles: Multiple scripts and roles ensure diverse gameplay experiences.

Inclusive Mechanics: Dead players can still vote and participate in discussions.

High Replayability: Different role combinations and scripts offer numerous unique games.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful selection of roles by the Storyteller.

High Cost: The game is relatively expensive, with prices ranging from $119 to $599.

Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the rules and mechanics overwhelming.

Personal Thoughts on Blood on the Clocktower

**Blood on the Clocktower** is ideal for those who enjoy deep social deduction games with high replay value. It’s perfect for large groups of friends or gaming communities looking for a game that combines strategy, bluffing, and social interaction. However, due to its complexity and cost, it may not be the best introduction for new board game enthusiasts. For those willing to dive in, it offers a rich and memorable gaming experience that can be reminisced about for years to come.

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.