Scotland Yard Swiss Edition (2011) Board Game

Scotland Yard Swiss Edition is a special version of the classic deduction board game, Scotland Yard, that was released in in 2011. Designed by Carlit and published by Ravensburger, this edition adds a twist to the original game with new components and gameplay mechanics. With a focus on hand management, hidden movement, point-to-point movement, secret unit deployment, and team-based gameplay, this version offers a unique and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Scotland Yard Swiss Edition

1 game board featuring a map of Switzerland

6 colored playing pieces

130 transportation tickets

1 label sheet

29 start cards (separate pools for Mr. X and detectives)

3 double-move tokens

1 travel log and paper inserts

1 storage tray for tickets, start cards, and playing pieces.

How To Setup Scotland Yard Swiss Edition

To set up the game, each player draws one card for each piece under their control to determine their initial locations. Mr. X draws first but does not place his token on the board. The detectives place their tokens at the locations indicated by their cards. The starting positions are designed to ensure Mr. X cannot be caught in the first round. In games with fewer than six players, some detectives may be designated as “bobbies,” which can move freely without using tickets.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Hidden Movement: Mr. X’s location is only revealed periodically.

Cooperative Play: Detectives work together to catch Mr. X.

Bluffing and Strategy: Mr. X must evade detection, while detectives use logic and teamwork to track him down.

Transportation Tickets: Players use tickets to move around the board.

Game Objective

Detectives: Work together to catch Mr. X by deducing his location and surrounding him.

Mr. X: Evade detection and remain at large until the game ends or until all his tickets are used up.

Player Experience

Playing Scotland Yard Swiss Edition is a thrilling experience that combines deduction, strategy, and a bit of luck. The game is easy to teach and set up, making it accessible to a wide range of players. The addition of new features like boat routes and ski areas in the Swiss Edition adds a fresh layer of complexity and excitement.

Pros

Engaging Gameplay: The hidden movement mechanism and cooperative play create a suspenseful and engaging game environment.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it easy for new players to join in.

Replayability: Each game is different due to the random starting positions and player strategies.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for both children and adults.

Cons

Dependence on Teamwork: Detectives need to work well together; poor teamwork can lead to a less enjoyable experience.

Potential for One Player to Dominate: In multiplayer settings, one detective might end up leading the entire investigation, reducing the involvement of other players.

Personal Thoughts on Scotland Yard Swiss Edition

Scotland Yard Swiss Edition is ideal for those who enjoy strategic and cooperative games. It’s a great choice for families and casual gamers looking for a game that combines logic and social interaction. While it shines as a 2-player game, it can also be enjoyable with more players, provided they are willing to collaborate effectively. The game’s unique mechanics and the addition of Swiss-specific elements make it a standout in the Scotland Yard series.

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