Sheriff of Nottingham
- Designer Sérgio Halaban , André Zatz
- Publisher Arcane Wonders , ADC Blackfire Entertainment , asmodee , Asterion Press , Broadway Toys LTD
- Illustration John Guytan , Lorraine Schleter , David Sladek
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the role of merchants trying to sneak goods past the Sheriff in medieval Nottingham. Each round, one player acts as the Sheriff deciding who to inspect or allow through. Bluffing, bribery, and negotiation are key to smuggling contraband and scoring points. The game ends after each player has been Sheriff twice (three times with 3 players).
Who Is This Game For?
Suitable for ages 14 and up, Sheriff of Nottingham is a medium-weight game best for players who enjoy social interaction and bluffing. With a 60-minute playtime, it is accessible to those new to negotiation games but offers depth for experienced players.
How It Works
In each round, one player is the Sheriff, while others are merchants. Merchants secretly select goods and declare them aloud, possibly lying or offering bribes. The Sheriff chooses whom to inspect, confiscating contraband if caught. Mechanics include Betting and Bluffing, Bribery, Hand Management, and Negotiation. The goal is to have the highest score from legal and smuggled goods after all Sheriff turns.
What Makes It Special
Sheriff of Nottingham was nominated in 2014 for several awards including the Board Game Quest Best Thematic Game and Golden Geek Best Card Game. Designed by Sérgio Halaban and André Zatz, it features a unique role-switching Sheriff mechanic set in medieval England, combining hand management with high player interaction.
Awards
2014
- 2014 Board Game Quest Awards Best Thematic Game — Nominated
- 2014 Board Game Quest Awards Game of the Year — Nominated
Pro
- High player interaction through bluffing and negotiation
- Unique role-switching Sheriff mechanic
- Strong medieval Nottingham theme
- Reasonable 60-minute playtime
Contra
- Not suited for players avoiding social interaction
- Recommended for ages 14 and up
- Games with 3 players can be longer
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in medieval Nottingham during Prince John’s visit. Players are merchants attempting to bring goods through the city gate guarded by the Sheriff, inspired by Robin Hood folklore and English history.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding bluffing and negotiation basics before attempting risky moves.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Sheriff of Nottingham is designed for 3 to 5 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay typically lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for a standard game night.
What prior experience do I need?
It’s a medium-weight game that requires some familiarity with bluffing and social deduction, but is accessible to beginners with practice.
How does this compare to similar games?
Sheriff of Nottingham stands out with its rotating Sheriff role and blend of bluffing, bribery, and negotiation mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to the 14+ age recommendation and social complexity, it’s better suited for older family members.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Betting and Bluffing, Bribery, and Hand Management creates a dynamic and interactive experience.
Fazit
Sheriff of Nottingham is recommended for players who enjoy bluffing and negotiation with social interaction. It’s a solid choice for fans of thematic, interactive card games with a medieval setting.
