Black Orchestra (2016) Board Game

Black Orchestra is a board game that was released in 2016 by designer Philip duBarry and published by Game Salute. The game is set during World War II and players take on the roles of members of the German resistance who are working to assassinate Adolf Hitler. The game is based on historical events and players must work together to carry out their mission while avoiding detection by the Gestapo.

Game Components of Black Orchestra

Player Boards: Each player has a board representing their conspirator.

Character Cards: Historic figures involved in the conspiracy against Hitler.

Item Cards: Tools and resources needed for plots.

Event Decks: Seven tiered decks reflecting historical events from pre-war to the end of the war.

Dice: Used for resolving plot attempts and other actions.

Map Board: A map of Europe, particularly Germany and Berlin, where Hitler and his deputies are located.

Action Tokens: For managing player actions.

Suspicion Tokens: Tracking the level of suspicion on each conspirator.

How To Setup Black Orchestra

To set up the game, start by placing the map board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a historic figure involved in the conspiracy and places their character card and player board accordingly. Shuffle and distribute the event decks, ensuring two random cards are removed from each deck without looking. Place Hitler and his deputies on their starting locations on the board. Distribute starting items and action tokens to the players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: The goal is to successfully complete a plot to assassinate Hitler.

Action Points: Players take up to three actions per turn, such as moving, revealing items, taking items, drawing cards, or using special abilities.

Dice Rolling: Used to resolve plot attempts, requiring players to roll equal or more hit symbols than Hitler’s military support.

Cooperative Game: Players work together to gather resources and information.

Hand Management: Managing item cards and resources.

Push Your Luck: Taking risks to succeed in plots while avoiding detection.

Variable Player Powers: Each conspirator has unique abilities.

Event Cards: Historical events that influence gameplay and create urgency.

Player Experience

Playing **Black Orchestra** immerses you in the tense and secretive world of conspirators during World War II. The game’s light rule set allows for a narrative-driven experience, where the theme and gameplay are deeply intertwined. Players must balance the risk of being caught with the urgency of completing their mission. The use of tiered event decks adds a layer of unpredictability, making each game unique and reflective of the historical backdrop.

Pros

Historical Theme: Deeply immersive and historically grounded.

Variable Gameplay: Event decks ensure each game is different.

Cooperative: Encourages teamwork and strategic planning.

Light Rules: Easy to learn and allows for focus on the narrative.

Solo Play: Supports solo gameplay with multiple conspirators.

Cons

Luck Factor: Dice rolls can be unpredictable and frustrating.

Complexity in Theme: While rules are light, the theme can be heavy and complex.

Replayability: While event decks vary, some players may find the overall experience repetitive.

Personal Thoughts on Black Orchestra

**Black Orchestra** is ideal for those who enjoy cooperative games, historical themes, and a blend of strategy and luck. It is particularly appealing to players who appreciate the narrative aspect of games and are willing to engage in a game that reflects the complexities and risks of real historical events. This game is not for those seeking highly complex rules or a game that is purely based on strategy without any element of chance. However, for those who value theme and cooperative gameplay, **Black Orchestra** offers a compelling and engaging experience.

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.