Murder on the Cosmic Express (2019) Board Game

Murder on the Cosmic Express is a social deduction board game set in a futuristic space setting. Released in 2019, it was designed by Justin Lynch and Lamaro Smith, with artwork by Screech Dragon Studios. The game combines elements of bluffing, deduction, and science fiction, making it a unique and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Murder on the Cosmic Express

Cards: Primarily consists of evidence cards, suspect cards, and other relevant investigative materials.

Player Count: 4-6 players.

Age: Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

How To Setup Murder on the Cosmic Express

To set up the game, players first distribute the suspect cards among themselves. Each player receives a role, which could be the Murderer or an innocent suspect. The evidence cards are then shuffled and distributed, providing each player with clues to solve the murder. The Captain, who is not one of the suspects, must gather information by interrogating the players and examining the evidence.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deduction Mechanics: Players must deduce who the Murderer is by analyzing evidence and interactions.

Social Deduction: Involves interrogating other players to gather more information.

Quick Gameplay: The game lasts less than 5 minutes.

Objective: The Captain must correctly identify the Murderer before the game ends.

Player Experience

**Murder on the Cosmic Express** offers a fast-paced and engaging experience. Players must think quickly and strategically to uncover the truth. The social interaction element adds a layer of fun, as players need to navigate the web of lies and truths presented by their fellow players. The short gameplay duration makes it an excellent filler game or a quick break between longer games.

Pros

Quick and Engaging: Lasts less than 5 minutes, making it perfect for time-sensitive game sessions.

Social Interaction: Encourages communication and strategic thinking among players.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to players of all ages.

Portable: Compact design allows for easy transport.

Cons

Short gameplay: Some players might find the game too brief.

Luck Element: The random distribution of evidence cards can sometimes leave players with limited information.

Repetitive: The game’s short duration and simple mechanics might make it repetitive after multiple plays.

Personal Thoughts on Murder on the Cosmic Express

**Murder on the Cosmic Express** is ideal for families, casual gamers, and those looking for a quick, fun game to play between more complex sessions. It’s a great introduction to deduction and social deduction games, teaching players how to gather information and make quick decisions. However, seasoned gamers might find it too simplistic or short-lived. Overall, it’s a delightful addition to any game collection for its unique blend of mystery and social interaction.

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