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Deal Me In (1988)

ByMichail

Board Game: Deal Me In
– Brief History and Background Information of Deal Me In

Deal Me In is a social deduction board game designed for 5-6 players, created by Paolo Mori, the same designer behind the popular game “Werewolves of Millers Hollow”. The game was released in 2018 and has gained popularity due to its simple yet engaging gameplay, as well as its replayability.

Why is Deal Me In Popular?

Deal Me In is a significant game because it offers a fresh take on the social deduction genre, which has gained popularity in recent years. The game is easy to learn and plays quickly, making it accessible for newcomers while still providing depth and strategy for experienced players. Additionally, the game has gained notoriety due to a controversial reveal during the 2019 GeekWars Live event, which added to its allure and popularity.

Game Components of Deal Me In

  • Game board with an 11 by 11 matrix
  • Cards for forming poker hands
  • Scorekeeping system

    How To Setup Deal Me In

    To set up the game, players need to place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player receives a set of cards, and the remaining cards are placed within reach of all players. The scorekeeping system is also set up according to the game’s instructions.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Mechanics: Players form poker hands using cards, and scores are marked on the board.
  • Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate the highest score by creating high-value poker hands.

    Player Experience

    Deal Me In is praised for its engaging gameplay, making it a favorite among Scrabble and poker enthusiasts. The game provides a competitive yet family-friendly environment where strategy and skill are key. Philip A Murphy, in a review for *Games International* magazine, gave it 4 out of 5 stars, highlighting its appeal for families and those who enjoy strategic games.

    Pros

  • Engaging for Families: Suitable for a wide age range, promoting healthy competition.
  • Strategic Depth: Combines poker and board game elements, requiring strategy and skill.
  • High Replayability: Multiple ways to form poker hands keep the game fresh and exciting.

    Cons

  • Complex Setup: Initial setup might be confusing for new players.
  • Limited Availability: As a vintage game, it may be hard to find.

    Personal Thoughts on Deal Me In

    Deal Me In is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck, particularly fans of Scrabble and poker. It’s an excellent addition to any family game night or social gathering where competitive spirits are high. Despite being a vintage game, its unique mechanics and engaging gameplay make it a timeless classic. However, due to its age, it might be challenging to find, and new players may need to invest some time in understanding the rules.

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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