Narcos: The Board Game (2018) Board Game

Narcos: The Board Game is based on the popular Netflix series “Narcos,” which follows the rise and fall of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the Medellín Cartel. The game features elements of deduction, hidden movement, and variable player powers, allowing players to experience the thrilling cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and drug traffickers in Colombia in the 1980s.

Game Components of Narcos: The Board Game

Game board

Patron and hunter player boards

Sicario and hunter miniatures

Location tiles

Drug shipment tokens

Money and resource tokens

Objective cards

Action cards

Season markers

How To Setup Narcos: The Board Game

To set up the game, each player chooses their role: one player becomes the Patron (Pablo Escobar), while the others take on the roles of the hunters. The game board is composed of various location tiles, representing different hideouts and operational areas. The Patron sets up their sicarios and hideouts, while the hunters place their units strategically to start the hunt. The season markers and objective cards are shuffled and placed accordingly, setting the stage for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Hidden Movement, Strategic, Thematic

Mechanics: Variable Player Powers, Area Control, Hand Management

Objective:
– Patron: Expand drug empire, complete objectives like shipping cocaine, and evade capture.
– Hunters: Collaborate to find and capture the Patron, disrupting the drug empire.

Key Mechanics:
– Hidden Movement: The Patron moves secretly, using special abilities and sicarios to evade capture.
– Resource Management: Patron must manage resources to move and complete objectives.
– Card Play: Both sides use action cards to influence the game state.
– Seasonal Changes: Game phases (seasons) introduce new challenges and opportunities.

Player Experience

In **Narcos: The Board Game**, players are immersed in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. The Patron must cleverly hide and move, using sicarios to clear paths and avoid hunters. Hunters must cooperate to gather clues, block the Patron’s movements, and capture him. The game is known for its tense and engaging gameplay, often coming down to the wire as hunters make informed guesses about the Patron’s location.

Pros

Thematic Experience: Deeply rooted in the Netflix series, offering a realistic and engaging theme.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and resource management.

Dynamic Gameplay: Each game can unfold differently, keeping it fresh and exciting.

Streamlined Mechanics: Less rules-heavy compared to similar games like Fury of Dracula.

Ideal for 2-3 Players: Optimized for a smaller player count, ensuring each player has significant roles.

Cons

Potential for Dull Games: If the Patron plays too conservatively, the game can become less engaging.

Predictable Elements: Some actions and card plays can become repetitive across multiple playthroughs.

No Timer Mechanic: The game can theoretically go on indefinitely without additional house rules.

Personal Thoughts on Narcos: The Board Game

**Narcos: The Board Game** is ideal for fans of the Netflix series and those who enjoy hidden movement and strategic games. It’s a great introduction to more complex game mechanics, offering a balanced and engaging experience. For those who appreciate thematic games with deep strategy, this is a must-play. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking highly complex rules or a timer mechanic to ensure a fixed game length. Implementing house rules, such as the ones suggested, can enhance the game’s pace and excitement.

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.