Destination X (2017) Board Game

Destination X is a deduction board game designed by Kristian Amundsen Østby and Bård Tuseth, released in 2017 by Aporta Games. The game is set in an exciting world of espionage and secret agents, where players must work together to uncover the location of their secret destination.

Game Components of Destination X

Player roles: One moderator (spy) and the remaining players as detectives.

Gameboard: A map used for geographical deductions.

Cards and tokens: For tracking locations and clues.

Rulebook: To guide the setup and gameplay.

How To Setup Destination X

To set up the game, one player takes on the role of the spy, who is on the run. The remaining players assume the roles of detectives. The spy sets up the game by secretly choosing a destination on the map, while the detectives receive clues and hints to deduce the spy’s location. The game components, including the map, cards, and tokens, are distributed accordingly to facilitate the deduction process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative/Competitive Hybrid: One player vs. the rest.

Geography Deduction: Players use geographical clues to locate the spy.

Moderator Role: The spy provides hints and challenges to the detectives.

Objective: Detectives aim to pinpoint the spy’s location on the map, while the spy tries to evade detection.

Player Experience

Playing **Destination X** offers a dynamic and engaging experience. The detectives must work together, analyzing clues and using their geographical knowledge to narrow down the possible locations of the spy. Meanwhile, the spy must balance providing enough information to keep the game exciting without giving away their position too quickly. This setup encourages teamwork, strategic thinking, and a bit of deception.

Pros

Interactive Storytelling: The game involves a narrative where the spy can create a compelling story to mislead the detectives.

Geographical Learning: Players can learn about different locations and geographical features.

Variable Player Count: Supports 2-10 players, making it versatile for various group sizes.

Engaging Gameplay: Combines deduction, strategy, and teamwork.

Cons

Complex Setup: The initial setup can be time-consuming and requires careful preparation by the spy.

Moderator Dependence: The game’s enjoyment depends heavily on the effectiveness of the spy in providing engaging clues.

Limited Replayability with Same Group: The game’s replay value might be reduced if played repeatedly with the same group of players.

Personal Thoughts on Destination X

**Destination X** is ideal for groups who enjoy cooperative games with a twist, as well as those interested in geography and deduction. It’s a great choice for families or teams looking for a game that encourages collaboration and strategic thinking. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer quick setup times or games with high replayability without significant variations in gameplay.

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