The Name of the Rose (2008) Board Game

The Name of the Rose is a board game based on the novel of the same name by Umberto Eco. The game was released in 2008 by Ravensburger and designed by Stefan Feld. It is set in a medieval monastery where players take on the roles of monks trying to solve a murder mystery.

Game Components of The Name of the Rose

Monks and non-monks figures

Player cards

Suspicion track

Clue track

Day/time marker

Number tiles

Color tiles

Event tiles

How To Setup The Name of the Rose

To set up the game, players first place the game board, which represents the monastery, in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a set of cards and places their monk figure on the board. The suspicion track, clue track, and day/time marker are also set up according to the rules. Number tiles, color tiles, and event tiles are shuffled and placed within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Bluffing and Deception: Players must deflect suspicion from themselves while trying to figure out the roles of other players.

Worker Placement: Players move their monk figures around the monastery.

Deduction: Players use clues and observations to deduce the roles of other monks.

Game Objective: The goal is to avoid being suspected as the culprit while correctly identifying the roles of other players.

Player Experience

The Name of the Rose is a game that keeps players thinking and engaged in deduction. It requires strategic thinking and the ability to send false signals to other players. The game can be complex, with multiple mechanics to keep track of, such as moving monks, adjusting suspicion tracks, and managing event tiles. This complexity means it may take several plays to become fully comfortable with the rules.

Pros

Engaging Deduction: The game offers a deep and challenging deduction experience.

Strategic Depth: Multiple mechanics provide a rich and complex gameplay.

Thematic Immersion: The setting of a medieval monastery adds a unique and immersive theme.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has many components and rules, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Long Playtime: Games can last around 90 minutes, especially for first-time players.

Not Family-Friendly: The game is not suitable for younger players due to its complexity and length.

Personal Thoughts on The Name of the Rose

This game is ideal for adults and teenagers who enjoy deduction and strategic gameplay. It is not a fast-paced, light-hearted game but rather one that requires careful thought and planning. If you are in the mood for a challenging and intellectually stimulating game, The Name of the Rose is a great choice. However, it may not be the best fit for families with younger children or those looking for a quick, casual gaming experience.

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