A Question of Scruples (1984) Board Game

A Question of Scruples is a classic party game that was first released in in 1984. It was designed by Henry Makow and has been published by various companies over the years. The game is all about moral dilemmas and ethical decision-making, making it a thought-provoking and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of A Question of Scruples

Yellow question cards: Each player receives five cards with moral dilemma questions.

Red answer cards: Each player gets a card with “YES”, “NO”, or “DEPENDS” printed on it.

Ballot cards (optional): With a halo on one side and a pitchfork on the other, used for challenging the sincerity of answers.

How To Setup A Question of Scruples

To set up the game, each player is dealt five yellow question cards and one red answer card. The setup time is approximately one minute, making it quick and easy to get started.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Social deduction, party game

Number of Players: 4-12

Playing Time: About 1 hour

Mechanics: Card drawing, bluffing, social interaction

Objective: The goal is to be the first player to discard all five yellow question cards.

Gameplay Steps:
– A player asks another player a question from their yellow card.
– The player must match the answer on their red card with the response given.
– If the answers match, the player discards the yellow and red cards and draws a new red card.
– If the answers do not match, the player draws a new yellow and red card.
– Optional: Players can use ballot cards to challenge the sincerity of answers, leading to a vote among players.

Player Experience

Playing A Question of Scruples is an engaging and often hilarious experience that sparks stimulating conversations and reveals unexpected facets of players’ moral stances. The game works well with both familiar and new players, as answers can be surprisingly unpredictable. It is particularly enjoyable in social settings, such as family reunions or gatherings with friends, where it can lead to lively discussions and memorable moments.

Pros

Encourages Social Interaction: The game fosters deep conversations and social engagement.

High Replay Value: With numerous question cards, each game can be different.

Simple to Learn: Easy setup and straightforward rules make it accessible to a wide range of players.

Fun and Engaging: The game combines humor and moral dilemmas, making it entertaining.

Cons

Dated Questions: Some questions may seem outdated or less relevant in modern times.

Dependence on Group Dynamics: The enjoyment can vary based on the group’s willingness to engage and have fun.

Potential for Conflict: Discussions can become heated, especially if players challenge each other’s sincerity.

Personal Thoughts on A Question of Scruples

A Question of Scruples is ideal for those who enjoy social games that prompt thoughtful discussions and laughter. It is a great addition to any game night or social gathering, especially for groups looking to engage in meaningful yet light-hearted interactions. While it may not be the best fit for very young players due to the complexity and nature of the questions, it is highly suitable for adults and teenagers who can appreciate the nuances of moral dilemmas.

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.