Sleuth (1971) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Sleuth is a classic deduction card game that was first released in 1971 by 3M. The game was designed by Sid Sackson and has since become a beloved favorite among gamers who enjoy games of logic and deduction. With its simple yet challenging gameplay, Sleuth has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed by players of all ages.

Game Components of Sleuth

Gem Cards: A deck of 36 cards, each featuring a gem with three characteristics: type (diamond, pearl, or opal), color (red, blue, green, or yellow), and number (solitaire, pair, or cluster).

Search Cards: A deck of 54 cards, including one-element cards, two-element cards, and free choice cards, used for questioning other players.

Information Sheets: Used by players to record and deduce information about the gem cards.

How To Setup Sleuth

To set up Sleuth, the deck of 36 gem cards is shuffled, and one card is randomly removed and set aside as the missing gem. The remaining cards are distributed evenly among the players, with any leftover cards placed face-up on the table for all to see. Each player is dealt four search cards face-up. The remaining search cards are placed in a face-down deck.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Identify the missing gem by questioning other players and gathering evidence.

Player Turns: Players choose a search card to use, interrogating another player about specific characteristics of their gem cards. One-element cards reveal the number of cards with a specific characteristic, two-element cards reveal the number and allow the interrogator to see the cards temporarily, and free choice cards offer flexibility in questioning.

Recording Information: Players use information sheets to track the answers and deduce the identity of the missing gem.

Guessing the Gem: A player can guess the missing gem at any time; if correct, they win, but if incorrect, they are out of the game but still must answer questions.

Player Experience

Sleuth is a game that requires diligent note-taking and strategic thinking. Players must pay close attention to every turn, tracking what other players have and what they might have. The game demands full attention and can be quite challenging, especially in larger player counts. It is a silent and intense experience, similar to solving a complex puzzle.

Pros

Engaging Deduction: Perfect for fans of deduction games, offering a solid 30-45 minute gameplay experience.

Portable: The game has a small footprint, making it easy to travel with.

Multiple Player Options: Accommodates 3-7 players, with optimal play at 5 or 7 players.

Logical Challenge: Rewards logical thinking and strategic questioning.

Cons

Note-taking Requirements: Requires very diligent note-taking, which can be daunting for some players.

Repetitive Gameplay: Some critics find the gameplay repetitive and lacking in originality.

Difficulty: Not suitable for players new to deduction games due to its complexity.

Personal Thoughts on Sleuth

Sleuth is a game tailored for deduction game enthusiasts and those who enjoy logical puzzles. It is ideal for players who can maintain focus and keep detailed records throughout the game. While it may not be the best choice for casual or new players due to its complexity, it offers a rewarding and challenging experience for those who enjoy intricate deduction and strategy. If you’re a fan of games like Clue but want something more streamlined and intense, Sleuth is definitely worth a try.

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