Deadwood Studios USA
- Designer James Ernest , Rick Fish
- Publisher Cheapass Games , Truant Spiele
- Illustration Phil Foglio , Cheyenne Wright
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the role of struggling actors on a cheesy Western backlot, represented by a six-sided die showing their Hollywood status. Players move around sound stages, taking on bit parts and choosing whether to act (roll dice to meet scene targets) or rehearse to improve future rolls. Success earns cash and fame, which upgrade your status die to unlock better roles. The highest total of money, fame, and status after filming wins.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 2 to 8 players aged 12 and up, this game suits fans of light to medium-weight strategy with dice elements. With a playtime of about 60 minutes, it offers a familiar yet engaging experience without requiring extensive prior knowledge. Ideal for players who enjoy economic themes combined with area movement and hand management mechanics.
How It Works
Deadwood Studios USA combines Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management. Players move their dice representing actors around film sets to claim roles. They decide to perform scenes by rolling dice or rehearse to accumulate bonuses for better rolls later. Success yields resources like cash and fame to boost their Hollywood status die, enabling access to higher-value roles. The game balances tactical choices with luck.
What Makes It Special
Designed by James Ernest and Rick Fish, Deadwood Studios USA features a unique theme where the player's die serves as both their actor and status indicator. Although it has no official awards, it remains a notable Cheapass Games title from the 1990s and is available as a TableTop Simulator mod. Its blend of humor, economic gameplay, and dice mechanics sets it apart.
Pro
- Unique Western movie studio theme
- Combination of Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management
- Engaging blend of luck and strategy
- Supports up to 8 players
Contra
- No official awards
- No solo mode available
- Requires at least 2 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set on an American Western movie studio backlot where players compete as actors for roles. The setting is a humorous retro take on the Wild West film industry.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on acquiring roles and rehearsing to improve your dice rolls and increase your status effectively.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Deadwood Studios USA requires at least two players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for a game night session.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a medium-complexity game that does not require extensive prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management in a humorous Western-Hollywood theme.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 12 and moderate complexity, it's better suited for families with experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The use of a die as both actor and status indicator combined with Area Movement and Hand Management stands out.
Fazit
Deadwood Studios USA is recommended for fans of thematic dice games with moderate complexity and humor. It works best with groups appreciating a 60-minute game involving strategic dice and resource management.
