Alcatraz: The Scapegoat (2011) Board Game

Alcatraz: The Scapegoat is a board game released in 2011 by Kuźnia Gier. Designed by Rafał Cywicki, Krzysztof Cywicki, and Krzysztof Hanusz, this game is set in the infamous Alcatraz prison. Players take on the roles of inmates trying to escape from the prison while also trying to frame others as the “scapegoat” for their escape attempts.

Game Components of Alcatraz: The Scapegoat

12 double-sided location sheets representing different rooms of the prison

4 character sheets showing cash, stamina, item storage, and plan completion

30 task cards detailing escape requirements

11 blackmail cards providing the Scapegoat with extra options

12 auxiliary cards for placing guards and determining starting locations

2 summary cards

1 Scapegoat card

Item tokens of five different types

28 player markers in 4 colors

23 white plan markers

20 blue guard markers

1 black Scapegoat marker

How To Setup Alcatraz: The Scapegoat

To set up the game, players randomly lay out the location cards to form the prison board. Auxiliary cards are drawn to place 8 guards around the board and determine the players’ starting locations. Three task cards are randomly placed on the board using the auxiliary deck. Finally, the Scapegoat is randomly determined.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Sequence: Each round involves a new guard appearing, choosing the Scapegoat, and attempting to complete the escape plan.

New Guard: Draw an auxiliary card and place a guard on the board, ensuring no more than four guards in a single location.

Choose the Scapegoat: Players discuss and vote on the new Scapegoat, with the current Scapegoat ordering the vote.

Complete the Plan: Players spend action points (AP) to move guards, carry out plan elements, or perform other actions. Completing plan elements rewards all players except the Scapegoat.

Objective: The goal is for the players to work together to complete all six elements of the escape plan (A-F) while ensuring the Scapegoat is indispensable to the plan to avoid being left behind.

Player Experience

In Alcatraz: The Scapegoat, players navigate a complex web of cooperation and self-preservation. The dynamic of voting for a Scapegoat each round adds a layer of social intrigue, as players must balance their need to escape with the risk of being made dispensable. This game requires strategic thinking, negotiation, and a bit of luck.

Pros

Hybrid Mechanics: Combines cooperative gameplay with social deduction elements.

Dynamic Roles: The changing Scapegoat role keeps the game engaging and unpredictable.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and negotiation among players.

Replayability: Random setup and task cards ensure different experiences each game.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a learning curve due to its unique mechanics.

Player Count Limitation: Designed for a narrow player range of 3-4.

Potential for Conflict: Voting mechanics can lead to disagreements among players.

Personal Thoughts on Alcatraz: The Scapegoat

This game is ideal for players who enjoy strategic teamwork mixed with a hint of betrayal and social interaction. It’s perfect for groups looking for a game that challenges both cooperation and individual strategy. However, it may not be the best fit for larger groups or those seeking a more straightforward, light-hearted gaming experience. Alcatraz: The Scapegoat offers a unique blend of mechanics that will appeal to fans of complex, socially interactive games.

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