Spies!
- Designer Lenny Glynn , John Prados
- Publisher Hobby Japan , SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.) , Tactical Studies Rules (TSR)
- Illustration Redmond Aksel Simonsen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Spies!, up to five players control secret services of major European powers between 1933 and 1939. Players gather opponents' secrets and safely return them to their capitals while protecting their own. The game combines Action Points, Pick-up and Deliver, and Take That mechanics for tactical depth and player interaction in a historical espionage setting.
Who Is This Game For?
Spies! targets experienced and expert players who enjoy complex strategy games with a long playtime. At around 180 minutes per session, it suits patient players interested in historical themes and negotiation mechanics. Not designed as a family game, it requires prior experience with complex board games.
How It Works
Players spend Action Points to move agents point-to-point across a Europe map, collecting and delivering secrets (Pick-up and Deliver). Take That mechanics allow players to disrupt opponents' plans. The goal is to accumulate the most secrets in your capital while safeguarding your own intelligence.
What Makes It Special
Designed by John Prados and Lenny Glynn, Spies! was nominated for the 1981 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Twentieth Century Game. Part of SPI's Power Politics series, it uniquely blends historical simulation with negotiation and Take That mechanics, setting it apart among espionage board games.
Awards
- 1981 Charles S. Roberts Best Twentieth Century Game — Nominated
Pro
- Historical simulation of pre-WWII European espionage
- Combines Action Points, Pick-up and Deliver, and Take That mechanics
- Supports up to five players for intense interaction
- 1981 Charles S. Roberts Award nominee
Contra
- Long playtime of about 180 minutes
- Complex rules suited for experienced players
- Not suitable for families with younger children (12+ recommended)
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in interwar Europe from 1933 to 1939, Spies! simulates secret service operations of Germany, Italy, Russia, France, and Britain before World War II.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding Action Points and point-to-point movement mechanics to make strategic decisions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Spies! is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 180 minutes, requiring a lengthy session.
What prior experience do I need?
This complex game is best suited for players familiar with strategic and historical board games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Spies! uniquely combines historical simulation with Action Points and Take That mechanics, distinguishing it from other espionage games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is recommended for older players (12+) and not ideal for younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The integration of Action Points for agent control and Take That for player interaction defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Spies! is recommended for players seeking deep, historical strategy games with high interaction. Its long playtime demands patience and experience, delivering a rich espionage and negotiation experience for enthusiasts.
