Secret Operation (2019) Board Game

Secret Operation is a board game designed by Alberto Corazón Arambarri and published by Brain Picnic in in 2019. The game falls under the categories of bluffing, deduction, and party game, making it a perfect choice for game nights with friends and family. With a runtime of 15–25 minutes, Secret Operation is designed for 4–10 players, with the best experience found with 6 players.

Game Components of Secret Operation

Cards: A deck of cards including engineer cards, traitor cards, and various action cards.

Player Tokens: Tokens to represent each player’s role and progress.

Project Cards: Cards that outline the tasks and objectives of the project.

How To Setup Secret Operation

Setup involves distributing the engineer and traitor cards among the players, ensuring that at least one player is a traitor. Each player receives a set of action cards and tokens. The project cards are placed within reach of all players, outlining the tasks that need to be completed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Semi-Cooperative Mechanics: Players work together to complete the project, but traitors are working against the team.

Card Play: Players use action cards to contribute to the project or sabotage it.

Social Deduction: Players must figure out who the traitors are to succeed.

Objective: The engineers aim to complete the project, while the traitors aim to sabotage it without being discovered.

Player Experience

Playing Secret Operation involves a mix of strategy, social deduction, and teamwork. Players must communicate effectively to achieve the project goals while being wary of potential traitors. The game fosters an environment of distrust and intrigue, making it engaging and challenging.

Pros

Interactive: Encourages social interaction and deduction.

Replayability: Different player roles and card combinations offer high replayability.

Engaging: The hidden traitor mechanic adds a layer of excitement and tension.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex for new players to learn.

Player Count: Requires a minimum number of players to be enjoyable.

Length: Games can be lengthy depending on player strategies.

Personal Thoughts on Secret Operation

Secret Operation is ideal for groups of friends who enjoy cooperative games with a twist. It is perfect for those who like to engage in social deduction and strategic planning. However, it may not be the best fit for very young children or those who prefer simple, straightforward games. If you’re looking for a game that challenges your ability to trust and deduce, Secret Operation is a great choice.

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