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Operation F.A.U.S.T. (2015) Board Game

ByMichail

Operation F.A.U.S.T. is a board game that was released in 2015 and designed by Luis Francisco. The game is set during World War II and involves bluffing, deduction, and secret unit deployment mechanics. Players take on the roles of art collectors trying to outsmart each other and acquire valuable artwork.

Game Components of Operation F.A.U.S.T.

  • Plot Cards:** 5 different types with hand or table abilities.
  • Art Cards:** Depict actual art pieces either stolen by the Nazis or recovered.
  • Forged Documents Cards:** Used to manipulate gameplay.
  • Intel Tokens:** Used for various actions.
  • Player Aids:** Help in managing game state.
  • Box and Rulebook:** Include historical notes and period photography.

    How To Setup Operation F.A.U.S.T.

    Players start by drawing art cards to determine the starting player; the one who draws the most valuable, non-forged art piece becomes the start player. Each player begins with 2 plot cards and 5 intel tokens. The game components are organized with the plot card draw deck, art pile, and art cache.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Recruit:** Purchase a plot card by paying 4 intel.
  • Purchase Art:** Spend 10 intel to take an art card from the art pile or art cache.
  • Forge:** Obtain a forged document card by paying 4 intel.
  • Plot:** Claim a plot card ability, which can be challenged by other players.
  • Objective:** Collect the most valuable art treasures by outwitting fellow players through strategic use of plot cards and intel.

    Player Experience

    In Operation F.A.U.S.T., players must balance hand management with maintaining hidden information. The game demands watchfulness, as players need to deduce when to challenge plot card claims and when to confiscate art from others. The psychological aspect of having a larger hand of cards can deter challenges, adding a layer of bluffing and deduction to the game.

    Pros

  • Highly Interactive:** Encourages player engagement and strategic thinking.
  • Unique Theme:** Set in occupied France during WWII, adding historical depth.
  • Strategic Gameplay:** Blending bluffing and deduction mechanics.
  • Quick Playtime:** Lasts about 30 minutes, suitable for various player counts.

    Cons

  • Rulebook Complexity:** The section on plot cards and challenging can be confusing and requires multiple readings.
  • Card Quality:** Cards tend to warp over time.

    Personal Thoughts on Operation F.A.U.S.T.

    Operation F.A.U.S.T. is ideal for players who enjoy bluffing and deduction games. It offers a unique blend of strategy and social interaction, making it appealing to those who like cat-and-mouse gameplay. The historical theme and use of real art pieces add an educational and immersive element, enhancing the overall gaming experience. While it may have some rulebook clarity issues, the game’s engaging mechanics and short playtime make it a recommended addition to any strategic gamer’s collection.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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