Gangsters
- Designer Don Greenwood , Gérard Mathieu
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Dave Dobyski , Charles Kibler , George I. Parrish, Jr.
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You take on the role of a crime boss fighting for control over speakeasies, gambling joints, and protection rackets. The game is fast-paced as each turn is timed, and a unique feature is the included water pistol used to 'shoot' opponents during hits. With different roles like racketeers, thugs, and vamps, players choose varied paths to victory. In five-player games, one player acts as the police, adding extra tension.
Who Is This Game For?
Gangsters is designed for experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy strategic games with moderate complexity. The roughly 120-minute playtime requires patience and tactical planning. It is less suitable for casual family gamers due to its theme and mechanics.
How It Works
Players use action points each turn to move and deploy their gang members across Chicago locations. The goal is to gain control of various establishments and generate income. The timed turns create pressure to make quick, strategic decisions. Different roles allow for multiple strategies within the action point system.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Don Greenwood and Gérard Mathieu and published by Avalon Hill in 1992, Gangsters combines action points with real-time turn limits for dynamic gameplay. It features a unique component: a water pistol used as part of the game. It belongs to the 'Components: Toy Guns / Pistols' family and stands out through its Prohibition-era theme.
Pro
- Timed turns add tension
- Varied strategies through different roles
- Inclusion of unique components like a water pistol
- Authentic Prohibition setting
Contra
- Long playtime around 120 minutes
- Requires tactical thinking and experience
- Not suitable for players under 12
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Chicago during the American Prohibition era of the 1920s, players lead rival organized crime syndicates competing for control of the city's underground businesses.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Use your action points efficiently and plan your moves carefully despite the time pressure.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Gangsters is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, with setup and explanation possibly extending the time.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is a medium complexity strategy game for players aged 12 and up, requiring basic tactical understanding.
How does this compare to similar games?
Gangsters combines action points with real-time turn limits and unique components like a water pistol.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited to experienced players than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of action points and timed turns creates dynamic and challenging gameplay.
Fazit
Gangsters is recommended for players who enjoy tactical mafia games with time pressure. It is less suited for casual or family players due to its length and complexity.
