Speakeasy (2014) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Speakeasy is a board game released in 2014, designed by Aurélien Bidaud and featuring artwork by Capsicum Games. The game falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy and Mafia, with gameplay centered around betting, bluffing, deduction, and memory. With a runtime of 30 minutes and recommended for players aged 8 and up, Speakeasy offers a unique gaming experience for 2 players.

Game Components of Speakeasy

Game Board: Divided into zones such as Downtown, Midtown, and Upper Side, each with multiple districts.

Capos (Workers): Used to trigger various actions around the board.

Family Members: Protect buildings and influence gameplay.

Operations Cards: Five types, including VIP Room, Party, Stills, Fleet, and Helper cards.

Buildings: Structures that players can build and manage.

Rum-runner Ships: Source of booze and cash.

Cops: Non-playable characters that affect building operations.

Cash and Crates: Used for financial management and player powers.

How To Setup Speakeasy

Setup involves each player establishing their initial presence by building their first structure in one of the three zones on the board. Players must strategically choose where to build, as this decision can significantly impact the game’s outcome. The game is divided into four Acts, each consisting of 11 turns, and the setup round is crucial for setting up the initial game state.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Worker Placement: Players place Capos to trigger actions such as producing booze, driving trucks, ambushing Rum-runners, and more.

Area Control: Players compete to control districts and zones to score points.

Engine Building: Players build and manage their operations tracks to enhance their capabilities.

Hand Management: Managing Helper cards to gain bonuses or take extra actions.

Pick-up and Deliver: Transporting booze from Stills to structures.

Public Objectives: Meeting financial milestones and scoring points during the “Lucky Luciano Phase” at the end of each Act.

Objective: To successfully manage and expand your speakeasy operations while thwarting your opponents, ultimately scoring the most points.

Player Experience

Playing **Speakeasy** immerses you in the world of 1920s Prohibition, where every action feels thematic and engaging. The game requires strategic planning, from the initial setup to the final turn. Players must balance resource management, area control, and strategic use of their Family Members to protect their buildings and operations. The game’s rhythm is maintained through its structured rounds and phases, making each decision meaningful and impactful.

Pros

Highly Thematic: The game deeply integrates its theme into every mechanic.

Strategic Depth: Offers a mix of short-term and long-term strategies.

Engaging Gameplay: Each turn requires thoughtful decision-making.

Streamlined Loan System: Simplifies financial management.

Hand Management: Adds a layer of complexity and strategy.

Cons

Linear Gameplay Loop: Some players find the gameplay loop too linear and lacking in innovative strategies.

Complexity: While the core mechanics are straightforward, the game has many moving parts and rules to keep track of.

Art and Design: Some players have criticized the art as overly dark and the player boards as gimmicky.

Lengthy Setup and Teardown: The game requires a significant amount of time for setup and teardown.

Personal Thoughts on Speakeasy

**Speakeasy** is for players who appreciate complex, thematic games with deep strategic layers. It is particularly suited for fans of Vital Lacerda’s designs and those who enjoy games like *The Gallerist* and *Vinhos: Deluxe Edition*. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer simpler or more casual games, as it requires a significant amount of time and effort to learn and master.

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