With a Smile & a Gun (2021) Board Game

With a Smile & a Gun is a board game released in 2021, designed by Justin Lanjil and featuring artwork by Subsurface Games. This game is set in the world of the Mafia and offers players the opportunity to engage in strategic gameplay as they navigate the criminal underworld.

Game Components of With a Smile & a Gun

Dice: Central to the game, used for drafting and resolving actions.

Player Boards: For tracking progress and resources.

Action Cards: Representing various mob activities and supernatural elements.

Influence Tokens: Used to mark control over different areas of the city.

Rulebook: Detailed instructions for setup and gameplay.

How To Setup With a Smile & a Gun

To set up the game, players first prepare their player boards and place the influence tokens and action cards within reach. Each player starts with a set of basic action cards and a few influence tokens. The dice are rolled to determine the initial draft pool. Players then take turns drafting dice to perform actions such as recruiting gang members, expanding their influence, and sabotaging their opponent.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Drafting: Players select dice from a shared pool to perform various actions.

Action Resolution: Actions are resolved based on the dice values and any applicable modifiers from action cards.

Area Control: Players aim to control key areas of the city by placing influence tokens.

Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most influence and control over the city’s underworld.

Player Experience

Playing With a Smile & a Gun immerses players in a world of intrigue and power struggles. Each turn requires strategic planning and adaptability, as the dice draft can significantly influence the available actions. The game’s thematic elements, including supernatural twists, add a layer of complexity and excitement.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers a rich strategic experience with multiple paths to victory.

Thematic Engagement: The noir Prohibition Era setting and supernatural elements are engaging and immersive.

Quick Playtime: Games are relatively short, lasting about 30-45 minutes.

High Replayability: The dice drafting mechanism and varied action cards ensure different experiences each play.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for 1-2 players, which might be restrictive for some gamers.

Luck of the Dice: The randomness of the dice roll can sometimes feel unfair or limiting.

Steep Learning Curve: Mastering the game’s strategies and card interactions can take time.

Personal Thoughts on With a Smile & a Gun

With a Smile & a Gun is ideal for fans of strategic, thematic games and those who enjoy dice drafting mechanics. It is particularly suited for gamers who appreciate a strong narrative and are looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience in a shorter playtime. The game’s design makes it a great addition to any collection, especially for those who enjoy competitive or solo play.

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