Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game (2018) Board Game

Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game was released in 2018 by Portal Games. It is a deduction and murder/mystery game designed by Jakub Łapot, Przemysław Rymer, and Ignacy Trzewiczek. The game is known for its immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay that puts players in the shoes of detectives solving various cases.

Game Components of Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game

Case Files: Each case consists of 36 cards

Antares Database: An online component for tracking clues and evidence

Investigator Boards: For each player to manage their progress

Markers and Tokens: For tracking various game elements

Portraits of Suspects: To build a mind map of connections

Red Yarn: To connect suspects and witnesses on a corkboard

How To Setup Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game

To set up the game, each player chooses an investigator board and starts with a set of basic skills. The case files are distributed, and players begin by reading the introductory scenario. The Antares Database is accessed online to input and track clues and evidence. Players also prepare their notebooks and any other tools they might need for note-taking and connecting clues.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together to solve crimes.

Deduction: Players gather clues, evidence, and piece together the story.

Investigation: Players use the Antares Database to analyze clues and make connections.

Skills and Authority: Players use skills and authority to gather more information (simplified in Detective: Season One).

Objective: Solve the crime by gathering evidence, interviewing suspects, and making deductions to uncover the truth.

Player Experience

Playing **Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game** is a deeply immersive experience. Players take on the roles of detectives, following leads, collecting evidence, and solving complex crimes. The game requires meticulous note-taking and a keen mind for deduction. Each case is part of a larger campaign, with an overarching story that connects all five cases. Players can fail cases but still progress through the campaign, receiving feedback on their performance through the Antares Database.

Pros

Immersive Storytelling: Engaging and complex cases that feel like real investigations.

High Replayability: Cases can be solved in multiple ways, encouraging replay.

Interactive Online Component: The Antares Database enhances the investigative experience.

Cooperative Play: Encourages teamwork and discussion among players.

Detailed Game World: Rich themes and settings add depth to the game.

Cons

Brain Burner: Requires a lot of mental effort and can be challenging.

Long Playtime: Each case takes approximately 3 hours to solve.

Complex Setup: Requires preparation and use of the online database.

Limited New Player Integration: New players joining mid-campaign can find it difficult to catch up.

Personal Thoughts on Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game

**Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game** is perfect for those who enjoy deduction games, complex storytelling, and cooperative play. It is ideal for players who appreciate a challenging and immersive experience, similar to fans of shows like CSI or X-Files. The game is not recommended for casual players looking for a quick, light game; instead, it suits gamers who are willing to invest time and effort into solving intricate mysteries. For those new to the series, **Detective: Season One** offers a more streamlined and accessible introduction to the game mechanics.

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