Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds (2017) Board Game

Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds is a card game that falls under the adventure, fantasy, and horror genres. Designed by Yves Tourigny, this game is based on the works of H.P. Lovecraft and is set in the fictional town of Arkham. The game was released in 2017 and is suitable for players aged 14 and above.

Game Components of Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds

Card deck

Puzzle clue cards

Investigation cards

Time and sanity trackers

Rulebook (available in English, Spanish, French, Japanese, and Italian)

How To Setup Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds

To set up the game, shuffle the card deck and draw a starting hand. Place the time and sanity trackers at their starting positions. Each case file has specific setup instructions, but generally, you lay out the investigation cards and prepare the puzzle clue cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Solitaire card game, detective/mystery

Mechanics: Card drafting, investigation, puzzle-solving

Objective: Solve the mystery by collecting and piecing together five puzzle clue cards before running out of time or mental stability.

Adjustable Difficulty: The game allows for different difficulty levels to accommodate various player skill levels.

Player Experience

Playing **Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds** immerses you in a noir detective world set against the dark, mythos-rich backdrop of H.P. Lovecraft’s works. As private investigator Matthew M. Bartlett, you must navigate through a complex web of clues and investigations to unravel the mystery. Each game session is unique due to the randomized card deck, providing a fresh challenge every time.

Pros

Immersive Theme: The game combines Lovecraftian horror with a noir detective genre, creating a unique and engaging atmosphere.

High Replayability: The randomized deck ensures that each game is different.

Adjustable Difficulty: Suitable for players of various skill levels.

Solo Play: Designed specifically for solo players, offering a rich and challenging experience.

Cons

Complex Setup: Setting up each case can be somewhat intricate.

Limited Availability: The collector’s cases are not widely available in stores and may need to be obtained directly from the designer or at conventions.

Mental Health Theme: The game’s sanity mechanic might be unsettling for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds

**Arkham Noir: Collector Case #1 – The Real Leeds** is ideal for fans of Lovecraftian fiction, noir detective stories, and solo card game enthusiasts. It offers a deep, immersive experience that challenges players to solve a complex mystery within a limited timeframe. The game’s unique blend of themes and mechanics makes it a standout for those looking for a solo gaming experience that is both intellectually stimulating and atmospherically rich. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer lighter or more casual games.

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