Tjuv och polis (1943) Board Game

Tjuv och polis, also known as Cops and Robbers, is a classic Swedish board game that was first released in 1943 by Alga. The game revolves around the theme of a chase between thieves and police officers, where players take on the roles of either the thieves trying to escape or the police trying to catch them.

Game Components of Tjuv och polis

Game board

Dice

Tokens for thieves and police officers

Cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Tjuv och polis

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Divide the players into two teams, thieves and police officers.

Each player selects a token and places it on the starting point on the board.

Shuffle the cards and place them face down on the designated area.

Roll the dice to determine who goes first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

The objective of Tjuv och polis is simple: thieves must reach their hideout before the police catch them. Players take turns rolling the dice and moving their tokens along the board, using various cards to gain advantages or hinder their opponents. The game is a combination of strategy and luck, as players must decide when to use their cards wisely to outmaneuver their opponents.

Player Experience

Pros:

Simple rules and easy to learn

Quick gameplay, typically lasting 60-120 minutes

Exciting and competitive, with players constantly on the edge of their seats

Encourages strategic thinking and decision-making

Cons:

Limited replay value, as the gameplay can become repetitive after multiple plays

Luck plays a significant role in the game, which may frustrate some players

Requires at least 3 players to fully enjoy the game

Personal Thoughts on Tjuv och polis

Tjuv och polis is a nostalgic and entertaining game that captures the thrill of a cat-and-mouse chase between thieves and police officers. The game’s components are well-designed, and the artwork by Lasse Åkerström, Anders Jeppsson, and Lars Melander adds to the immersive experience.

While Tjuv och polis may not offer the depth of modern board games, its simplicity and accessibility make it a great choice for families and casual gamers. The game’s category of dice rolling and spin and move may not appeal to hardcore board game enthusiasts, but it provides a fun and engaging experience for players of all ages.

In terms of pricing and availability, Tjuv och polis can be found both new and used, with prices varying depending on the condition of the game. For those looking for alternatives or similar games, titles like “Scotland Yard” or “Stop Thief!” offer similar gameplay mechanics in a detective-themed setting.

Overall, Tjuv och polis is worth your time if you enjoy light-hearted and competitive board games that can be enjoyed with friends and family. It’s a game that brings out the inner detective or thief in all of us, making it a fun addition to any game night.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.