Illuminati: Brainwash (2001) Board Game

Illuminati: Brainwash is an expansion for the base game Illuminati, which was originally created by Steve Jackson Games in in 2001. The Brainwash expansion was released in 2001 and adds new cards, rules, and gameplay mechanics to the original game. The theme of the game revolves around players taking on the role of secret societies vying for world domination through manipulation and strategy.

Game Components of Illuminati: Brainwash

2 counter sheets

Playing mat

Rules

This expansion set includes a gameboard that allows players to track and change the alignments of the world, adding a new layer of strategy to the game.

How To Setup Illuminati: Brainwash

To set up Illuminati: Brainwash, players need to integrate the expansion components into the base game. This involves placing the gameboard on the table and distributing the new counter sheets and rules. The setup is relatively straightforward, building upon the existing mechanics of the Illuminati game. Players should ensure that all new components are understood and incorporated correctly before starting the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics:
– Card manipulation: Players use special cards to brainwash and change the alignments of various groups.
– Resource management: Managing money chips and special cards to influence the game.
– Strategic alliances: Forming alliances and betrayals to achieve goals.
– Dice rolling: Using two six-sided dice to resolve conflicts.

Game Objective:
– The objective is to control the world by manipulating the alignments of different groups. Players aim to fulfill their Illuminati’s special goals, such as controlling specific groups or achieving certain alignments.

Player Experience

Illuminati: Brainwash enhances the original game by adding a deeper level of psychological warfare and strategic depth. Players must subtly shift attitudes and warp minds to achieve their goals, making the game more complex and engaging. The expansion encourages more intricate strategies and interactions between players, adding to the game’s replayability.

Pros

Enhanced Strategy: Introduces new mechanics that deepen the game’s strategic layers.

Increased Replayability: New components and rules add variety to each game session.

Humor and Satire: Maintains the humorous and satirical tone of the original game.

Social Interaction: Encourages alliances, betrayals, and direct player interaction.

Cons

Complexity: May increase the learning curve for new players.

Compatibility: Requires the base Illuminati game to be fully functional.

Out of Print: Originally out of print for over a decade, though re-released.

Personal Thoughts on Illuminati: Brainwash

Illuminati: Brainwash is ideal for fans of the original Illuminati game looking to expand their gameplay experience. It suits players who enjoy complex strategic games, satire, and conspiracy-themed humor. The game is recommended for those who appreciate deep social interaction and strategic thinking, making it a great addition to any collection of strategy and card games. However, new players might find it more challenging due to the added complexity, so it’s best suited for those already familiar with the base game.

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