Nightmare Productions
- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher Filosofia Éditions , Hasbro , Trick or Treat Studios , Überplay , Competo / Marektoy
- Illustration Daniel Araújo , Damon S. Brown , Sophie Eves , Olivier Fagnère , Marcelo Groo , Allison Kline
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Over four rounds, players bid on chips representing directors, actors, cameras, and more to complete films on their film strips. The auction uses a closed economy where players pay into a pot that others share. Bonus points are awarded for best and worst films and for achievements like best director. Each round includes parties where players can select offers without paying.
Who Is This Game For?
Nightmare Productions targets strategy gamers who enjoy auction mechanics and movie themes. Designed for 2 to 5 players aged 10 and up, the game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for medium-length game sessions. It requires some familiarity with auctions but is not overly complex.
How It Works
The core mechanics include 'Auction / Bidding' and 'Auction: Turn Order Until Pass'. Players bid in a closed economy on film roles to complete movies. Money is paid into a shared pot, distributed among other players. Victory points serve as resources awarded for completed films and bonuses such as best films or directors.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Nightmare Productions won the Årets Spel Best Adult Game award in 2011. It belongs to the horror movie theme family and the Filosofia reprints series. Its closed economy auction combined with movie production mechanics sets it apart from other auction games.
Awards
2001
- 2019 Juego del Año — Recommended
- 2011 Årets Spel Best Adult Game — Winner
- 2000 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Strategic auction mechanic with closed economy
- Bonus points for best and worst films
- Movie production theme with horror elements
- Moderate 60-minute playtime
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires experience with auction mechanics
- Minimum age of 10 years
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the movie industry with a focus on horror films, reflecting its horror movie theme family. Players manage production roles like directors, actors, and special effects to complete films.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on timing your bids carefully to acquire needed film roles without overspending.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Nightmare Productions supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, fitting medium-length gaming sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a strategy game requiring basic understanding of auction mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its closed economy auction combined with movie production theme makes it unique among auction games.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 10 and up, it suits experienced players rather than younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The closed economy auction where players contribute to and benefit from a shared pot is a key feature.
Fazit
Recommended for fans of auction games and movie themes seeking strategic depth in a moderate playtime. Less suitable for families with younger children or those uninterested in auctions.
