Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game (2025) Board Game

Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game is a tabletop game that was released in in 2025. It is based on the classic role-playing campaign of the same name, which was originally published for the Call of Cthulhu role-playing game. The game is designed by Aleksander Zawada and features stunning artwork from Chaosium and another artist.

Game Components of Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game

Train and Tracks: A detailed representation of the Orient Express, serving as the main stage for the game.

Passengers: Approximately 20 interactable characters, including investigators, suspects, and unsuspecting fellow travelers.

Mythos Creatures: Supernatural entities from the Cthulhu mythos.

Player Tokens and Cards: Representing the investigators and their abilities.

Suspect Cards: Each suspect has secrets and some are cultists.

Evil Antagonist: A central villain moving through the train with its own agenda.

How To Setup Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game

Setting up the game involves preparing the train board, placing passenger tokens, and distributing player tokens and cards. The train is divided into sections, each representing different cars, and the tracks are laid out to simulate the journey through various landscapes. Players take on the roles of investigators, and the game includes a set of rules to guide the initial setup and ensure all components are correctly placed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Investigation: Players gather clues and interact with passengers to uncover secrets.

Interaction with NPCs: Players engage with various passengers, each with their own attitudes and secrets.

Supernatural Threats: Players must fend off Mythos creatures and the evil antagonist.

Objective: The primary goal is to uncover the mysteries and stop the evil antagonist before it achieves its objectives.

Player Experience

Playing **Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game** immerses players in a dramatic and tense environment, reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s mysteries combined with the supernatural horror of the Cthulhu mythos. Players must collaborate to investigate, make decisions quickly, and manage the increasing threat of the evil antagonist and Mythos creatures. The game is designed to capture the theatrical experience of the original TTRPG campaign.

Pros

Immersive Storytelling: Rich narrative and atmospheric setting.

Complex Characters: Interactable passengers with unique attitudes and secrets.

Cooperative Gameplay: Players work together to solve mysteries and combat threats.

High Replayability: Multiple scenarios and outcomes based on player choices.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful preparation and organization of components.

Steep Learning Curve: May be challenging for new players due to intricate mechanics and rules.

Lengthy Gameplay: Sessions can be long due to the depth of investigation and interaction.

Personal Thoughts on Horror on the Orient Express: The Board Game

This game is ideal for fans of horror and mystery, particularly those familiar with the Call of Cthulhu TTRPG. It offers a unique blend of investigative gameplay and supernatural horror, making it a compelling choice for groups looking for a challenging and immersive experience. However, it may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity and lengthy gameplay sessions.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.