Stop Thief (1979) Board Game

Stop Thief is a classic board game that was first released in 1979 by Parker Brothers. It was designed by Robert Doyle and features a unique electronic component that adds to the excitement of gameplay. The game is a deduction game where players must use clues to track down and apprehend criminals.

Game Components of Stop Thief

Game Board: Divided into four buildings and rows of streets, along with subway stops.

Electronic Crime Scanner: Provides clues and sounds to track the thief.

Detective Pawns: Four detective tokens (blue, yellow, red, and green).

Detective Licenses: Eight licenses.

Sleuth Cards: 32 cards offering perks and setbacks.

Wanted Posters: 10 posters with thief details and reward amounts.

Money: Paper money in denominations of $500, $100, and $50.

Dice: Two dice for player movement.

Thief Cards: Cards representing the thieves to be caught.

How To Setup Stop Thief

To set up the game, players start by choosing a detective token and placing it on the street space in front of the Acme Detective Agency. Each player receives $300 and three Sleuth Cards. The Banker is chosen to handle the money, Sleuth Cards, and Wanted Posters. The top Wanted Poster is drawn, and the reward money is placed on it. The game begins with the player who rolls the highest number on the dice.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Be the first player to accumulate $2,500 by catching thieves.

Gameplay:
– Players press the Clue button on the electronic scanner to get hints on the thief’s location.
– Dice rolls determine player movement towards the suspected location of the thief.
– Players can use Sleuth Cards for tips, extra moves, or other advantages.
– The Tip button provides the exact location of the thief.
– The Arrest button is used to make an arrest by entering the building and space number where the thief is believed to be.
– Each crime committed by the thief increases the reward money.

Player Experience

Playing **Stop Thief** is a thrilling experience that combines strategy, deductive skills, and a bit of luck. The electronic crime scanner adds an exciting element, with its sounds and clues guiding players in their pursuit of the thief. The game’s dynamic nature, with the thief’s constant movement and the possibility of false arrests, keeps players engaged and tense throughout.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: The use of an electronic crime scanner was groundbreaking in 1979.

Engaging Gameplay: Combines strategy and luck, keeping players on their toes.

Nostalgic Value: For those who played it in the past, it offers a nostalgic experience.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Cons

Technological Limitations: The old electronic scanner can be prone to malfunctions.

Limited Replayability: The game’s mechanics, while innovative, may become repetitive after several plays.

Availability: The original version is hard to find, and the restored version may not capture the exact same nostalgia.

Personal Thoughts on Stop Thief

**Stop Thief** is a classic game that is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of strategy and detective work. It is ideal for family game nights or for anyone looking to relive the nostalgia of 1970s board games. However, it may not appeal to players seeking more complex or modern gameplay mechanics. The restored version by Restoration Games, which uses a smartphone app, offers a more contemporary twist for those interested in a modern take on the classic game.

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