Stop Thief
- Designer Robert Doyle
- Publisher Parker Brothers , Alga , Borras Plana S.A. , Clipper , Editrice Giochi
- Illustration Robert Doyle
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Stop Thief, you play as a private detective tracking an invisible thief using an electronic crime scanner. You listen to sounds like doors opening, glass breaking, and footsteps to deduce the thief's movements on the board. Combining hidden movement, memory, and dice rolling mechanics, you race to catch the thief before your opponents do.
Who Is This Game For?
Stop Thief is a medium complexity game lasting about 30 minutes, suitable for players aged 10 and up. It's ideal for those who enjoy deduction and electronic-assisted gameplay. Prior experience with hidden movement games helps but isn't required. Its short playtime fits well into casual game nights.
How It Works
The core mechanic is hidden movement, where the electronic crime scanner emits sounds indicating the thief’s actions. Players move on a grid, using dice rolling and memory to track the thief’s location. Sleuth Cards provide additional clues or bonuses. The first player to catch the thief and earn $2500 in rewards wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Robert Doyle and recommended for the Spiel des Jahres 1980, Stop Thief stands out through its innovative use of an electronic device as a crime scanner. It belongs to the hidden movement family and thematically centers on burglary and heists, creating an immersive detective experience.
Awards
1980
Pro
- Innovative hidden movement with electronic crime scanner
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
- Supports 2-4 players, good for small groups
- Spiel des Jahres 1980 recommended
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires concentration and good memory
- Theme focused specifically on burglary and detective work
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a modern city with 19 different crime locations like jewelry stores and banks. Electronic sound effects bring the thief's actions to life, enhancing the immersive theme.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Pay close attention to the crime scanner’s sounds and keep track of clues to better follow the thief.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Stop Thief is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 30 minutes, making it suitable for short game sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic experience with deduction or hidden movement games is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Stop Thief is unique due to its electronic crime scanner that provides audio clues, differentiating it from other hidden movement games.
Is this suitable for families?
With an age recommendation of 10+ and moderate complexity, it suits families with older children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hidden movement, electronic dice rolling, and memory elements makes the gameplay unique.
Fazit
Stop Thief is recommended for fans of deduction and electronic board games looking for a quick, engaging experience in tracking a thief.
