Inkognito (1988) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Inkognito is a deduction board game that was released in in 1988. It was designed by Leo Colovini and Alex Randolph and published by Ares Games. The game is set in Venice during Carnival where players take on the roles of secret agents trying to uncover the identity of their partners and complete their mission.

Game Components of Inkognito

4 colored Identity cards

4 colored Build cards

4 character figures (each with different builds: tall, short, fat, thin)

Note sheets and passports for each player

Grey mission cards

Ambassador figure

Phantom of Prophecy randomizer

Game board featuring Venice

How To Setup Inkognito

To set up Inkognito, each player selects a color and places their four figures, each representing a different build, on the corresponding colored spots on the board. Each player receives a secret identity card, a build card, and a mission card. The Ambassador figure is placed at the Embassy. Players also get a note sheet and a passport to record their findings. The Phantom of Prophecy is prepared for use in determining player actions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Deduction: Players gather clues by questioning other players and the Ambassador.

Random Movement: The Phantom of Prophecy randomizer determines available actions (e.g., moving on land or sea routes).

Social Interaction: Players must interact to gather information and deduce identities.

Game Objective:

Discover Partner: Identify which player is your partner.

Complete Mission: Exchange mission cards with your partner to reveal the full mission and complete it before the opposing team.

Ambassador’s Goal: If playing with five players, the Ambassador’s goal is to achieve “perfect knowledge” of all characters’ identities and builds before any team completes their mission.

Player Experience

Inkognito offers a thrilling experience of mystery and tension, set against the vibrant backdrop of the Venetian carnival. Players must use their deduction skills to uncover the identities of other players, navigate through the city, and deceive their opponents. The game requires strategic thinking and careful note-taking to piece together the clues and achieve the mission.

Pros

Engaging Deduction Mechanics: Encourages logical reasoning and strategic thinking.

High Replayability: Each game offers a unique set of challenges and outcomes.

Immersive Theme: The Venetian carnival setting adds a romantic and intriguing atmosphere.

Social Interaction: Promotes communication and strategy among players.

Cons

Complex Setup: Initial setup can be time-consuming due to the distribution of various cards and figures.

Luck Element: The Phantom of Prophecy randomizer introduces an element of luck that can sometimes frustrate players.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can take around 90 minutes, which may be too long for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Inkognito

Inkognito is ideal for fans of deduction games and those who enjoy social interaction and strategic planning. It is suitable for players aged 10 and above, making it a great family game or a fun addition to a game night with friends. The game’s complexity and length may not appeal to casual gamers, but for those who enjoy a challenge, Inkognito provides a rich and engaging experience.

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