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Heimlich & Co. JAPAN BOARDGAME PRIZE NOMINEE 2002 SPIEL DES JAHRES 1986

Heimlich & Co.

2-7
Players
30
Minutes
8+
Age
1984
Published

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What to Expect

In Heimlich & Co., players move colored spies around an oval board by rolling dice and distributing movement points among them. Each space grants points, but your own color remains secret until the end. Players must deduce who controls which color while trying to score points. Advanced rules reward correct guesses about opponents' identities with bonus points.

Who Is This Game For?

This game is suitable for families and casual players aged 8 and up who enjoy bluffing and deduction. The simple rules and short 30-minute playtime make it accessible for beginners and ideal for light game sessions.

How It Works

Each turn, a player rolls a die and moves any combination of spies forward the rolled number of spaces on the oval track (Track Movement). Players score points based on the new positions. Roles are hidden (Hidden Roles), so no one knows which color belongs to whom. Players observe moves and bluff to guess opponents' colors, scoring points both for movement and correct deductions.

Hidden Roles Roll / Spin and Move Track Movement

What Makes It Special

Designed by Wolfgang Kramer, Heimlich & Co. won the Spiel des Jahres in 1986. It uniquely combines Hidden Roles with Roll / Spin and Move mechanics and belongs to the Containers: Tubes family. The game's blend of simple accessibility and bluffing depth sets it apart.

Awards

JAPAN BOARDGAME PRIZE NOMINEE 2002
Nominated
2002
SPIEL DES JAHRES 1986
Winner
1986
SPIEL DES JAHRES EMPFOHLEN 1985
Recommended
1985

Pro

  • Innovative bluffing with hidden roles
  • Short playtime around 30 minutes
  • Supports 2 to 7 players
  • Spiel des Jahres winner 1986

Contra

  • Simpler game with limited strategic depth
  • No solo mode included
  • May lack complexity for expert players

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game immerses players in a world of secret agents and spies. Colored figures represent agents on covert missions, secretly maneuvered to score points and deceive opponents.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on carefully observing players’ moves and look for patterns to deduce their hidden roles.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Heimlich & Co. is designed for 2 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

Games last about 30 minutes, making it well suited for quick play sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

The game features simple rules and is suitable for beginners without prior experience.

How does this compare to similar games?

It uniquely combines Hidden Roles with Roll / Spin and Move mechanics, differentiating it from other bluff games.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, it’s family-friendly from age 8 with easy-to-learn rules.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its combination of Hidden Roles and Roll / Spin and Move creates a distinctive bluffing dynamic.

Fazit

Heimlich & Co. is a well-accessible bluff and deduction game for families and casual players. It's especially recommended if you enjoy hidden role games with quick playtime.