Alibi (1993) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Alibi is a deduction card game that was released in in 1993. Designed by Daniel Gelon and published by Mayfair Games, it is a murder/mystery themed game that challenges players to solve a crime by collecting sets of cards and trading with other players.

Game Components of Alibi

Player character cards

Alibi cards

Clue cards

Game board

Tokens and markers

How To Setup Alibi

To set up the game, each player chooses a character and receives the corresponding character card and alibi cards. The game board is placed in the middle of the playing area, and clue cards are shuffled and distributed according to the game’s rules. Players then take turns presenting their alibis and gathering clues to solve the murder mystery.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Deduction, social interaction, and bluffing.

Objective: Each player must figure out who the murderer is, where the crime was committed, and what the murder weapon was, while also protecting their own alibi.

Gameplay: Players take turns asking questions, sharing information, and using their alibi cards to mislead or reveal clues.

Player Experience

Playing **Alibi** involves a mix of strategic thinking, social interaction, and a bit of luck. Players need to carefully manage their alibis and clues to avoid suspicion while trying to uncover the truth. The game encourages active participation and can be quite engaging as players navigate the web of deceit and deduction.

Pros

High Replayability: With multiple characters and random clue distribution, each game can be different.

Encourages Social Interaction: Players must communicate and negotiate to gather information.

Simple to Learn: The rules are straightforward, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Cons

Lengthy Games: Games can last between 30 to 45 minutes, which may be too long for some players.

Dependent on Player Participation: The game’s enjoyment is heavily influenced by the engagement and creativity of the players.

Personal Thoughts on Alibi

**Alibi** is ideal for groups of friends or family gatherings who enjoy interactive and mystery-themed games. It is particularly suited for those who like to solve puzzles and engage in strategic social interactions. While it may not be the best fit for very young children or those seeking a quick, 10-minute game, it offers a fun and challenging experience for those who enjoy deduction and mystery-solving.

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