Detective: City of Angels (2019) Board Game

Detective: City of Angels is a board game designed by Evan Derrick and published by Van Ryder Games in in 2019. The game is set in the dark and gritty world of 1940s Los Angeles, where players take on the roles of detectives trying to solve a series of murder cases. With an immersive narrative and a unique traitor mechanic, Detective: City of Angels offers a thrilling and challenging gameplay experience for 1-5 players.

Game Components of Detective: City of Angels

Map: A 33×21 inch game board based on a 1932 public domain map by K. M. Leuschner.

Case Books: Each detective has a book briefing them on the case and special rules.

Investigation Sheets: 50 double-sided sheets for taking notes and solving the case.

Detective Boards: 4 player boards.

Miniatures: 4 detective miniatures with colored bases.

Cases: 9 cases, each with a tuck box containing case-specific cards.

Leverage Markers: 32 markers to gain leverage over suspects.

Action Cubes: 16 cubes to track detective actions.

Knowledge Markers: 32 markers to track evidence.

Solve Tokens: Tokens to solve the case.

Bribe-a-snitch: Mechanic to gain information from other detectives.

Suspect Standees: 37 standees for suspects.

Chisel Components: Includes a Chisel casebook, tutorial book, Chisel board, ARC sleeve, and removed evidence cards.

Sleuth Mode Components: Sleuth book, Sleuth cards, and a stress tracker for solo or cooperative modes.

How To Setup Detective: City of Angels

Setup involves each player selecting a detective and receiving their respective components, including the detective board, investigation sheets, and case book. The Chisel player receives their casebook and board. The game board is laid out, and the necessary cards and markers are distributed based on the case being played. Players must follow the specific setup instructions for each case, which are detailed in the case books and tutorial book.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

ARC System: An Adaptive Response Card system that simulates interrogating suspects, with the Chisel controlling suspect responses.

Investigation: Detectives explore the city, gather evidence, and challenge suspect responses.

Leverage System: Detectives and the Chisel can gain leverage over each other, complicating the investigation.

Objective: Detectives aim to solve the case by gathering and interpreting evidence correctly, while the Chisel aims to mislead and delay them.

Player Experience

Playing **Detective: City of Angels** immerses players in a gritty, narrative-driven world where each case unfolds differently based on the detectives’ actions. The game encourages strategic thinking, deduction, and sometimes unethical tactics to achieve success. The Chisel role adds a dynamic layer of challenge, as this player must adapt and mislead the detectives effectively.

Pros

Original Mechanics: The ARC system and Chisel role offer unique and engaging gameplay.

Thematic Depth: The game’s setting and components create a rich, immersive experience.

Replayability: Cases can be played multiple times with different outcomes.

Interactive: Promotes interaction and strategy among players.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its intricate mechanics.

Time Consumption: Games can be lengthy, requiring several hours to complete.

Chisel Role: While engaging, the Chisel role can be demanding and requires strategic thinking.

Personal Thoughts on Detective: City of Angels

**Detective: City of Angels** is ideal for fans of detective fiction, mystery enthusiasts, and players who enjoy complex, narrative-driven games. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate strategic gameplay and are willing to invest time in learning and mastering the game’s mechanics. This game is not for casual players seeking quick, light-hearted experiences but rather for those who enjoy deep, immersive gaming sessions.

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