Saboteur
Saboteur at your next game night?
Add Saboteur to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Fréderic Moyersoen
- Publisher AMIGO , 999 Games , Albi , asmodee , Boardgame Space
- Illustration Andrea Boekhoff , Alexander Jung , Fréderic Moyersoen
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Saboteur, you take on the role of dwarves mining for gold, with secret roles as miners or saboteurs. Players lay path cards to build routes to hidden goal cards, play action cards to help or hinder, and try to deduce who the saboteurs are. After three rounds, the player with the most gold wins. The game blends bluffing, deduction, and team dynamics in an engaging card-based setting.
Who Is This Game For?
Saboteur is a family-friendly game suitable for players aged 8 and up. Its 30-minute playtime fits well for casual groups or family game nights. No prior experience is needed due to simple rules. It supports 3 to 10 players, making it great for larger groups.
How It Works
Players receive hidden roles as miners or saboteurs, revealed only at round end. The core mechanics include Hand Management—playing path cards that must connect properly—and Hidden Roles with Hidden Victory Points. Players build routes to goal cards or try to block the path. Action cards allow players to assist or obstruct others. The goal is to create an uninterrupted path to the gold or prevent it, depending on your role.
What Makes It Special
Saboteur was nominated for the 2004 Japan Boardgame Prize Best Foreign Game for Beginners. Designed by Fréderic Moyersoen, it uniquely combines hidden roles with network and route building. This blend of bluff, deduction, and card play makes it stand out in the mining-themed game family.
Awards
2004
Pro
- Secret roles create social tension and interaction
- Short 30-minute playtime allows quick sessions
- Supports 3 to 10 players, suitable for larger groups
- Easy to learn rules, family-friendly
Contra
- No solo mode; requires at least 3 players
- Limited strategic depth for expert gamers
- Player count strongly affects group dynamics
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in a fantasy mining world where dwarves dig for gold. The mining theme is central, reflected in path and goal cards representing the underground tunnels.
Tips for beginners
Focus on concealing your role well and observe other players’ moves carefully to spot saboteurs or avoid detection.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Saboteur requires a minimum of 3 players and is not designed for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A game of Saboteur typically lasts about 30 minutes, perfect for quick play.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is easy to learn and suitable for players without prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Saboteur uniquely combines hidden roles with route and network building mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is family-friendly and recommended for ages 8 and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of Hidden Roles, Hand Management, and Network and Route Building defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Saboteur offers accessible party gameplay for larger groups, relying on secret roles and player interaction. It’s ideal for those seeking quick, tactical bluffing rounds.
Saboteur at your next game night?
Add Saboteur to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Saboteur to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
