Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
- Designer Tobey Ho
- Publisher Jolly Thinkers , Across the Board , Angry Lion Games , Doit Games , Gém Klub Kft.
- Illustration Marcin Adamski , Ben Carre , Tommy Ng , Ari Wong
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on roles such as Investigators, Murderer, and Forensic Scientist in a fast-paced game of deception and deduction. The Forensic Scientist provides clues using scene tiles without words, while players interpret evidence and try to identify the culprit. Communication limits, hidden roles, and a dramatic finale create a tense social deduction experience.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for players aged 14 and up, it suits groups of 4 to 12 looking for a quick, interactive party game. With a playtime of about 20 minutes, it requires minimal setup and rule learning, making it accessible for casual players who enjoy bluffing and social deduction.
How It Works
Each player is secretly assigned a role including Investigator, Murderer, Forensic Scientist, or Accomplice. The Forensic Scientist knows the solution and gives clues via scene cards without verbal hints. Players use deduction and storytelling within communication limits to uncover the murderer. The game ends with a finale that determines whether the Investigators or Murderer win.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Tobey Ho, Deception combines deduction with communication limits and storytelling. It was nominated for the 2015 Meeples Choice Award, finalist at the 2017 Lys Grand Public, and recommended for the 2019 Juego del Año. It belongs to the Werewolf/Mafia family and uses Give a Clue/Get a Clue mechanics.
Awards
- 2019 Juego del Año — Recommended
- 2017 Lys Grand Public — Finalist
- 2015 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime of about 20 minutes
- Supports large groups up to 12 players
- Engaging mix of deduction, bluffing, and communication limits
- Recognized with nominations and recommendations (Meeples Choice Award 2015, Juego del Año 2019)
Contra
- Not suitable for groups smaller than 4 players
- Requires attention and social interaction, not for quiet game nights
- More of a hobby game, less suitable for families with younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in modern Hong Kong where players investigate a murder case. Roles include forensic scientists and investigators working to reveal the killer.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on carefully interpreting the Forensic Scientist's clues and watch for inconsistencies in players' statements.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Deception: Murder in Hong Kong is designed for 4 to 12 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 20 minutes, making it a quick choice for parties or casual gatherings.
What prior experience do I need?
It is a hobby-level game with simple rules, requiring no extensive prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines deduction with communication limits and storytelling, setting it apart from traditional Werewolf or Mafia games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to the 14+ age rating and social complexity, it is better suited for older teens and adults.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Hidden Roles, Deduction, and Communication Limits makes this game unique.
Fazit
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong is a quick, social deduction game ideal for larger groups and fans of bluffing. It emphasizes player interaction over complex rules.
