Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit (2019) Board Game

Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit is a board game released in 2019, designed by Matt Griffin and Jason Taylor. The game falls under the category of bluffing, deduction, and spies/secret agents, with gameplay mechanics focused on auction/bidding and pick-up and deliver. Restoration Games is the artist behind the captivating visuals of the game, adding to the overall immersive experience.

Game Components of Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit

1 Game Board

6 Agent Figures

4 Player Shields

4 Payoff Boards

1 Dr. Solomon Standee

1 Dr. Solomon Die

1 Briefcase Miniature

120 Gold Sovereigns

20 Burn Tokens

4 Restricted Markers

6 Starting Payoff Tokens

1 Rule Book

How To Setup Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit

To set up the game, players start by placing the game board, which features a map of Europe, in the middle of the playing area. Each player receives a player screen, an agent payoff board, and 30 gold sovereign coins. The six freelance agents are placed on various locations on the board. Players are secretly dealt a “starting agent” tile where they place three sovereigns and then place one sovereign on two other agents, leaving 25 sovereigns for future bribes.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Actions: Players can pay off agents or Dr. Solomon by adding gold sovereigns to their payoff board, burn agents to remove them from the game, or move agents and the briefcase across the board.

Challenges: Players can challenge each other’s actions, leading to a pseudo-auction where the player with the higher amount of gold sovereigns on the challenged agent wins.

Agent Abilities: Each agent has a unique ability that allows them to move an agent or the briefcase for free.

Dr. Solomon: Introduces an alternate win condition to prevent stalling, where Dr. Solomon can reclaim the briefcase and award it to the player who has paid him the most.

Objective: The first player to move the briefcase to their headquarters wins, or the player who has paid Dr. Solomon the most if the game reaches a stalemate.

Player Experience

**Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit** is a game of subtle deception and social deduction. Players must manage their limited gold sovereigns carefully, balancing the need to bribe agents with the risk of being challenged by other players. The game is known for its simple yet engaging mechanics, making it accessible to new gamers while still offering depth for experienced players. However, it may lack the complexity desired by some deeper gamers and can become repetitive if played too frequently.

Pros

Intrigue and Engagement: The game excels in delivering a taste of intrigue and engagement through subtle moves and grand strategy.

Easy to Teach: Simple rules make it easy to teach, even for family game nights.

Table Interaction: Encourages great table interaction and bluffing strategies.

Stalemate Prevention: The introduction of Dr. Solomon prevents potential stalemates.

Cons

Non-variable Gameplay: The gameplay does not change significantly from one play to another.

Honor System: Relies on the honor system, which can be a trust issue for some players.

Short and Light: May be too short and light for deeper gamers.

Complexity for Younger Players: Too complicated for younger players (recommended for 14+ years old).

Personal Thoughts on Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit

**Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit** is ideal for gamers who enjoy games with a strong focus on social deduction and bluffing. It is a great addition to family game nights for teens and friends, providing a fun and tactical experience. However, it may not satisfy the cravings of deeper gamers looking for more complex and variable gameplay. If you’re seeking a game that offers a delightful mix of spy-themed intrigue and simple yet strategic gameplay, **Conspiracy: The Solomon Gambit** is a gem worth considering.

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