Good & Bad Ghosts
- Designer Alex Randolph
- Publisher Istituto Del Gioco (IDG) , asmodee , Bütehorn Spiele (Buchholz Verlag) , Drei Magier Spiele , Estrela
- Illustration Johann Rüttinger
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Good & Bad Ghosts, each player controls four good and four evil ghosts, known only to themselves. On a 6x6 board with removed corners, players move their ghosts orthogonally to either eliminate opponent's good ghosts, get rid of their own evil ghosts, or escape with a good ghost. The game relies on bluffing and deduction as players keep their ghosts' identities secret.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is ideal for fans of abstract strategy and deduction mechanics. It is a fast-paced, accessible game for enthusiasts, lasting around 15 minutes, suitable from age 8. No prior experience is necessary, but tactical depth emerges with practice.
How It Works
Good & Bad Ghosts features grid movement on a 6x6 board where players move one ghost per turn orthogonally. Capturing occurs by moving onto an opponent's ghost (static capture). The identities of ghosts are secret (secret unit deployment), adding bluff and deduction layers. The game ends when a player removes all their evil ghosts, captures all opponent’s good ghosts, or escapes with a good ghost.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Alex Randolph, Good & Bad Ghosts was recommended for Spiel des Jahres 1982 and won Årets Spel Best Family Game 1986. Its blend of abstract strategy with secret units and bluffing stands out. It belongs to the two-player game family and uses a classic grid movement system.
Awards
1982
- 1986 Årets Spel Best Family Game — Winner
Pro
- Short playtime of about 15 minutes
- Secret ghost identities encourage bluff and deduction
- Recommended for Spiel des Jahres 1982 and Årets Spel winner 1986
- Easy to learn with strategic depth
Contra
- Only for two players
- Short playtime may feel repetitive for heavy gamers
- Requires some tactical thinking despite low age limit
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game thematically depicts a supernatural battle between good and evil ghosts on an abstract board. The atmosphere evokes classic ghost stories with a spooky yet minimalistic feel.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on observing your opponent’s moves to deduce ghost identities for better decisions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Good & Bad Ghosts is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 15 minutes, allowing quick rounds.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is easy to pick up but offers tactical depth with experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its unique combination of secret unit deployment, grid movement, and bluffing sets it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, suitable from age 8, though it requires some strategic thinking.
What mechanic makes it special?
Secret unit deployment combined with grid movement and static capture defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Good & Bad Ghosts is a highly recommended, quick two-player game with intriguing bluff and deduction elements. It suits players who enjoy abstract strategy with a secret identity twist.
