Pizza, Spaghetti e Mandolino (2015) Board Game

Pizza, Spaghetti e Mandolino is a board game released in 2015 and designed by Dario Dordoni. It falls under the Mafia category and can be played by 2-4 players, with a recommended age of 8 and above. The game has a runtime of 15 minutes and involves dice rolling as its main mechanism.

Game Components of Pizza, Spaghetti e Mandolino

4 family sets, each consisting of 1 “Boss” card, 4 “familiari” (family members) cards, and 10 gold bars.

2 separate decks of cards: “Picciotto” and “Boss” cards.

A special dice with Arabic numerals and a skull symbol instead of the number 1.

A rulebook available in Italian and English.

How To Setup Pizza, Spaghetti e Mandolino

Setup is quick and straightforward. Each player chooses a family and places the “Boss” card with the associated dice showing the number 6, along with the four “familiari” cards. Players then receive their gold bars. The two card decks are shuffled separately, and each player is dealt a “Boss” card. This sets the stage for the game to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players can purchase “Picciotto” cards using gold bars.

Card Play: Players can use these cards to enhance attacks, steal gold from opponents, or seize control of the bank.

Dice Rolling: The special dice is used to track health points for the “Boss” character.

Objective: The goal is to eliminate other families by reducing their “Boss” health to zero, making your family the dominant one.

Player Experience

**Pizza, Spaghetti e Mandolino** offers a highly interactive and fast-paced experience, ideal for 2-4 players. Games typically last about 15 minutes, making it a great filler game. The game introduces tactical combat mechanisms similar to those in games like Magic: The Gathering but in a simpler, more accessible way. This makes it suitable for both children (minimum age 10) and new players.

Pros

Engaging Graphics: The game features attractive, caricatured artwork.

Simple Mechanics: Easy to learn rules.

High Interaction: Constant player engagement, especially with multiple players.

Quick Games: Short playtime of about 15 minutes.

Cons

Lack of Strategy: Early game choices are often based on personal preference rather than strategy.

Potential Stalling: Players with limited resources can become passive targets late in the game.

Rule Clarity: The rulebook could benefit from a more concise and rigorous writing style.

Personal Thoughts on Pizza, Spaghetti e Mandolino

This game is not your typical family-friendly game due to its mafia theme, but it handles the subject matter in a grottesque and humorous way, making it immune to criticisms of being politically incorrect. It is a great introduction to tactical card games for younger players and a fun, quick filler for adults. The game’s light-hearted approach and simple rules make it an enjoyable addition to any game collection.

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.