Chicago
- Designer H. Jean Vanaise
- Publisher Flying Turtle Games , Otto Maier Verlag , Playmix
- Illustration A. Lefort , J. C. Sohier
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Chicago, players compete in a Prohibition-era city to control bars and casinos. You strategically place thugs to gain influence in different districts. The goal is to own a majority of casinos, all bars in the central square, or a set number of thugs with rings. The game progresses through phases of six rounds each, where players earn income from their holdings and expand their power base.
Who Is This Game For?
Chicago is designed for experienced players aged 16 and up who enjoy complex strategy games with competition and area majority mechanics. With a playtime of up to 120 minutes and no solo mode, it suits 2 to 4 players ready for tactical confrontations and long-term influence struggles.
How It Works
Players move their figures across city districts to gain control over bars and casinos (Area Movement). By deploying thugs, players achieve majority control in areas (Area Majority / Influence). The game is divided into phases of six rounds; after each phase, players collect income based on their controlled properties. Achieving specific goals can end the game early.
What Makes It Special
Designed by H. Jean Vanaise in 1986, Chicago blends mafia themes with strategic area majority and movement mechanics. Set during the US Prohibition, it belongs to the Cities series and stands out for its thematic depth and strategic variety despite lacking major awards.
Pro
- Strategic depth through Area Majority and Area Movement
- Historical Prohibition-era setting
- Supports 2 to 4 players, no solo option
- Phase and round structure provides clear gameplay segments
Contra
- No solo play available
- Relatively long playtime of up to 120 minutes
- Complexity suited for experienced players aged 16+
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Prohibition-era Chicago, USA, focusing on battles for control over bars and casinos amid mafia conflicts.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on securing influence in individual districts before pursuing multiple goals at once.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Chicago is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 120 minutes, played in up to four phases of six rounds each.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players aged 16 and older familiar with complex strategy games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Chicago combines mafia themes with area majority and movement mechanics in a historical Prohibition setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and age recommendation, Chicago is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Area Majority / Influence and Area Movement is central to the gameplay.
Fazit
Chicago is recommended for players who enjoy tactical area control games with historical themes. Its longer duration and complexity make it less suitable for casual or family gamers.
