Black Orchestra
- Designer Philip duBarry
- Publisher Game Salute , Galakta , Ludonova , Matagot , REXhry
- Illustration Cody Jones , Dann May , Lucas Soriano
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Black Orchestra, players assume the roles of historical conspirators plotting to assassinate Hitler. You must carefully choose actions like moving, searching for items, or drawing cards, while managing the risk of Gestapo suspicion. The game progresses through seven WWII stages using event cards that reflect historical developments. Increased suspicion leads to arrests, requiring tight cooperation and strategic risk-taking among players.
Who Is This Game For?
Black Orchestra targets experienced players aged 14 and up who enjoy cooperative, thematic games. With approximately 90 minutes playtime, it demands patience and strategic planning. The included solo mode also suits players interested in complex historical settings playing alone.
How It Works
Each turn, players have three actions such as moving, searching, or drawing cards. Alternatively, they can roll dice to gain extra actions but risk raising suspicion. Suspicion can lead to arrests by the Gestapo, threatening the team. The game combines Action Points, Hand Management, and Dice Rolling in a cooperative framework progressing through event cards spanning seven WWII phases.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Philip duBarry, Black Orchestra was nominated for the 2016 Golden Geek Best Cooperative Game award. It stands out for its thematic integration of the WWII resistance movement and the blend of dice mechanics with hand management. It belongs to a historical family centered on Berlin and WWII resistance themes.
Awards
2016
- 2016 Cardboard Republic Immersionist Laurel — Nominated
Pro
- Cooperative gameplay with historical theme
- Engaging mix of dice rolling and hand management
- Includes solo mode
- Thematic event cards guide the game flow
Contra
- Requires patience due to 90-minute playtime
- Higher complexity for newcomers
- Theme may not suit all players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, the game focuses on a group of resistance fighters known as the Black Orchestra plotting to assassinate Hitler.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on efficiently using your actions and managing suspicion to avoid early arrest.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Black Orchestra includes a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, plus setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with cooperative and tactical games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Black Orchestra uniquely combines dice mechanics with hand management in a strong historical setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and theme, it’s better suited for players 14 and older rather than younger families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of Action Points, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management in a cooperative context stands out.
Fazit
Black Orchestra is recommended for players seeking cooperative games with historical depth and medium complexity. It challenges teamwork and risk management, especially in full player counts or solo play.
