Unusual Suspects (2009) Board Game

Unusual Suspects is a deduction board game released in 2009 by Fundex and Ideal. The game is designed for 2-4 players, with a quick runtime of around 10 minutes. It falls under the category of deduction games, where players use clues to figure out the identities of suspects.

Game Components of Unusual Suspects

Dice slide

Fingerprint dice

“Criminal file” cards

Fingerprint cards (secret identities)

Evidence locker card

Instructions.

How To Setup Unusual Suspects

To set up the game, open the dice slide and place it in the middle of the table, alongside the evidence locker card. The last player to watch a mystery movie (or the youngest player) becomes the first dealer. Each player is dealt one secret identity card face down and six “criminal file” cards. The remaining cards are placed in a draw pile next to the evidence locker card, with the top card flipped over to form the discard pile. The dealer then rolls all six fingerprint dice through the dice slide, ensuring their faces do not change during this process.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Dice rolling

Card drawing and discarding

Secret identities

Game Objective:

Match the cards in your hand to the dice in the evidence locker.

Ensure none of your cards or the dice match your secret identity.

The first player to achieve this wins the round. A player must win three rounds to win the game.

Player Experience

In Unusual Suspects, players take on dual roles as both detectives and suspects. The gameplay is a mix of strategy and luck, with each turn allowing players to either draw a card or re-roll one of the dice. However, the game’s reliance on luck can be significant, as the actions of other players can drastically change the state of the game, often leaving players with little control over their fate. The addition of secret identities adds a layer of strategy, as players must carefully manage their hand to avoid revealing their identity while trying to solve the case.

Pros

Simple to learn and explain

Engaging combination of dice and card mechanics

Light strategic decisions add a layer of complexity

Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Cons

High reliance on luck

Limited control over the game’s progression

Rounds can be lengthy due to the influence of other players’ actions

Average component quality.

Personal Thoughts on Unusual Suspects

Unusual Suspects is a solid, if unspectacular, game that is ideal for families or casual gaming groups. It’s easy to pick up and play, making it accessible to younger players. However, the lack of control and heavy reliance on luck might make it less appealing to more experienced gamers looking for deeper strategic gameplay. It’s a fun, quick game that can be enjoyed in short sessions, but it may not hold long-term interest for everyone.

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