Desperados (2004) Board Game

Desperados is a board game that was released in in 2004. Designed by Anselm Ostertag, the game is set in the American West and features a card game mechanism. Players take on the roles of outlaws trying to become the most notorious desperado in the Wild West.

Game Components of Desperados

Game Board: A map of towns connected by roads.

Movement Cards: One set for each city on the board for both the Marshal and the Desperados.

Stage Coach Schedules: Randomly drawn to show the routes of the stage coaches.

Figures: Representing the Marshal, Sheriffs, and Desperados.

City Cards: Used to track movements and outcomes.

How To Setup Desperados

To set up the game, each player chooses a starting point for their figures on the board. The Marshal player starts by moving the stage coaches according to the schedules, then moves his Sheriffs to adjacent cities, and finally decides on the hidden movement of the Marshal. The Desperados players also move their figures hidden from the others, using their movement cards to determine their destinations.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Hidden Movement: Both the Marshal and Desperados move their figures secretly.

Area Control: Desperados need to be in the same city as the stage coaches to rob them.

Resource Management: Managing movement cards to avoid capture and achieve objectives.

Social Interaction: Desperados can communicate and coordinate their actions.

Game Objective

Desperados: Collect more than 4000 Dollars per player by robbing stage coaches without getting caught.

Marshal: Prevent the Desperados from achieving their goal by arresting them.

Player Experience

Playing Desperados involves a blend of strategic planning, social interaction, and a bit of luck. Players must carefully manage their movement cards and coordinate with their teammates to outsmart the Marshal. The game requires attention to detail and a good understanding of the board layout to successfully execute robberies and avoid capture.

Pros

Interactive and Social: Encourages communication and coordination among players.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and use of resources.

Immersive Theme: The Wild West setting adds a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Simple to Learn: Despite some initial complexity in the rules, the game is relatively easy to understand after a few explanations.

Cons

Complex Rules: Some details can be hard to find in the instructions.

Luck Factor: The random draw of stage coach schedules and movement cards can influence the game significantly.

Short Game Length: The game lasts only five rounds, which may be too short for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Desperados

Desperados is a game tailored for those who enjoy strategic planning, social interaction, and a touch of luck. It is ideal for groups of players who can communicate effectively and coordinate their actions. While it may not be the best fit for players seeking a lengthy game, it offers a fun and engaging experience for those looking for a concise yet strategic outing. If you’re a fan of games like “Scotland Yard” or “Detective,” you’ll likely find Desperados to be an entertaining addition to your game collection.

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