Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue (1999) Board Game

Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue is a card game that was released in in 1999. It is part of the Mystery Rummy series created by Mike Fitzgerald and published by Eagle-Gryphon Games. The game is inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s famous detective story, “The Murders in the Rue Morgue.” Players take on the roles of investigators trying to solve the mystery of a brutal murder.

Game Components of Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue

Cards: The game includes various types of cards such as Evidence Cards, Gavel Cards, and special cards like the Prefect of Police and the Orangutan.

Card Types:
– Evidence Cards: These are the primary Rummy cards, divided into ten colors with 5 cards in each color except for Edgar Allan Poe’s color which has 4.
– Gavel Cards: There are 12 Gavel Cards in this game, which is fewer than in the first Mystery Rummy game but still integral to the gameplay.
– Special Cards: Includes the Prefect of Police and the Orangutan, which have unique roles in the game.

Orangutan Token: Acts as a repository for cards similar to a crib in Cribbage.

How To Setup Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue

To set up the game, players first shuffle the deck and deal out a certain number of cards to each player, depending on the number of players. Each player should keep their cards hidden. The remaining cards are placed in a draw pile. The top card of the draw pile is turned over to start the discard pile. The Orangutan token is also placed on the table to collect certain cards as the game progresses.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics:

Rummy: Players aim to form melds with their cards.

Melds: Formed by playing 3 or more cards of the same color.

Layoffs: Players can add cards to existing melds.

Gavel Cards: Special cards that can alter gameplay.

Orangutan: Collects certain cards face-down.

Game Objective:
– Collect and play Evidence Cards to form melds.
– Reduce the number of cards in your hand by laying off or forming new melds.
– Be the first player to discard all their cards to win.

Player Experience

Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue offers a blend of strategic depth and thematic immersion. Players take on the roles of detectives trying to solve the murders described in Poe’s story. The game supports 2-4 players, allowing for both solo and partnership play, which adds a layer of complexity and teamwork. Games typically last between 30-60 minutes.

Pros

Thematic Integration: The game closely follows the narrative of Edgar Allan Poe’s “Murders in the Rue Morgue,” adding a rich thematic layer.

Strategic Depth: Incorporates special cards and mechanics that enhance the basic Rummy gameplay.

Flexibility: Supports both solo and partnership play.

Art and Design: Features full-color, evocative artwork.

Cons

Learning Curve: Some rules and jargon may confuse first-time players.

Simpler than Predecessor: Compared to the first Mystery Rummy game, this one is lighter and less complex.

Personal Thoughts on Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue

Mystery Rummy: Murders in the Rue Morgue is ideal for fans of Rummy and detective-themed games. It offers a fun and challenging experience that is accessible to new players while still providing enough depth for seasoned gamers. The game’s ability to support different player counts and its thematic tie to a classic piece of literature make it a compelling addition to any card game collection. However, those seeking a more complex strategy might find it slightly lighter compared to its predecessor, Mystery Rummy: Jack the Ripper.

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