Cardboard model of a building with "BERGNEIN" overprinted in rainbow colors.
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Bergnein (2017)

ByMichail

Bergnein
– Brief History and Background Information of Bergnein

Bergnein is a card game for 2-6 players in English, based on the door system and entry requirements for the Berghain nightclub in Berlin, and was released in late 2017. The game was published under the Mother.loading collective and was created by Alexander Kandiloros and Joakim Bergkvist. The game achieved a degree of attention and notoriety both before and after its launch, thanks to a cancelled Kickstarter campaign which was covered extensively in the international press, and a series of threats and legal action on behalf of Berghain and its head doorman, Sven Marquardt. The game was printed and sold to people who pre-ordered it, but as a result of the legal action, it was subsequently withdrawn from sale and is no longer in print.

Why is Bergnein Popular?

Bergnein is significant because it is based on the door system and entry requirements for the Berghain nightclub in Berlin, which is known for its strict door policy and is considered one of the most exclusive clubs in the world. The game’s popularity stems from its association with the club and the controversy surrounding its release and subsequent withdrawal from sale.

Game Components of Bergnein

  • Cards: Representing various types of clubbers, such as hipsters, bloggers, tourists, and snobs.
  • Action Cards: Used to manipulate the queue to the player’s advantage or to hinder opponents.
  • Box Art: Initially featured the Berghain building, which was later altered due to legal issues.

    How To Setup Bergnein

    To set up Bergnein, players first shuffle the deck of clubber cards and action cards. Each player takes turns acting as the doorman, with the objective of creating the ideal mix of guests inside the club. The game can be played in two modes, varying the game length from 10 minutes to an hour.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Mechanics: Inspired by the card game Guillotine (1997), Bergnein combines strategy and luck.
  • Objective: Players aim to allow the most highly valued guests into the club while using action cards to manipulate the queue.
  • Gameplay: Players take turns selecting which clubbers to let in and which to turn away, scoring points based on the status of the guests they allow entry.
  • Winning Condition: The player with the highest score, achieved by letting in the most valuable guests, wins the game.

    Player Experience

    Bergnein offers a quick and fun experience, suitable for both non-gamers and game night veterans. Players enjoy the influence they have on the line using action cards and the strategy involved in creating the ideal mix of guests. However, some characters in the game can be quite risqué, making it more suitable for an adult audience rather than the recommended age of 10 and up.

    Pros

  • Quick and Fun: Games can last from 10 minutes to an hour, making it a great fit for various gaming sessions.
  • Strategic Depth: The use of action cards adds a layer of strategy and social interaction.
  • Unique Theme: The game’s concept, inspired by Berghain’s strict door policy, is both intriguing and humorous.

    Cons

  • Legal Issues: The game faced significant legal challenges, leading to its withdrawal from sale.
  • Mature Content: Some characters are risqué, which may limit the game’s appeal to certain groups.
  • Availability: Due to legal actions, the game is no longer in print and can only be found through secondary markets.

    Personal Thoughts on Bergnein

    Bergnein is for those who appreciate a unique gaming experience, particularly fans of techno music and the culture surrounding Berghain. The game’s ability to generate laughter and strategic thinking makes it a great addition to adult game nights. However, its limited availability and mature content mean it may not be suitable for all audiences. Despite the legal turmoil, Bergnein has achieved a cult status, with used copies selling for significantly higher prices than the original retail price.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl