Scape Goat (2020) Board Game

Scape Goat is a card game designed by Jon Perry and published by Indie Boards & Cards in in 2020. It falls under the categories of deduction and party games, making it a great choice for game nights with friends and family. The game is designed for 3 to 6 players, with the ideal player count being 4 to 5. With a runtime of around 30 minutes, Scape Goat is suitable for players aged 14 and above.

Game Components of Scape Goat

Character sheets

Dice

Action cards

A secret matrix for determining the scape goat

Rulebook

How To Setup Scape Goat

To set up Scape Goat, players start by rolling two dice to determine a grid coordinate on the back of their character sheet. This coordinate indicates which player is the scape goat, but with a twist: the scape goat’s sheet shows a different player. Each player, except the scape goat, knows who the scape goat is, while the scape goat themselves are misled into thinking another player is the target.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Social Deduction: Players work together to frame one player without that player knowing they are the scape goat.

Hidden Roles: Each player has a role indicated by the dice roll and the secret matrix.

Action Selection: Players select from available actions to create a combination of cards that frame the scape goat.

Paranoia and Misdirection: Players must communicate subtly to avoid raising suspicion.

Game Objective

Group Objective: Frame the scape goat by gathering the right combination of cards.

Scape Goat’s Objective: Figure out your identity and choose the “go to the cops” action to win.

Player Experience

Scape Goat creates a unique and paranoia-filled experience where every player, except the scape goat, is working to frame the same player without directly revealing their intentions. The game encourages subtle communication and careful observation, as any misstep could lead to the scape goat discovering their identity and winning the game. This dynamic produces a less confrontational and more strategic social deduction experience compared to other games in the genre.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: Flips the traditional social deduction formula, creating a fresh and exciting experience.

Quick Games: Games are short, lasting only 15-20 minutes.

High Replayability: The game’s setup ensures a different experience each time it is played.

Accessible: Easy to teach and get to the table, even for those new to social deduction games.

Cons

Middle-of-the-Road Components: The game’s components are not particularly standout.

Potential for Long-Term Engagement Questions: Some players wonder if the game will maintain its appeal over time.

Less Banter: The game’s design can discourage open banter and raucous interactions.

Personal Thoughts on Scape Goat

Scape Goat is an excellent choice for those looking for a unique social deduction experience that is less confrontational and more strategic. It is particularly enjoyable for players who appreciate subtle communication and the thrill of paranoia. While it may not offer the same level of longevity as some other games in the genre, Scape Goat provides a fun and innovative experience that is well worth the investment. It is ideal for groups looking to mix up their game nights with something fresh and engaging.

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