1793: Patriots & Traitors

Sound of Drums GmbH · Board game · 2024
1–5 · best 4 Solo 30–120 min Weight 3.1/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Buy
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy games with a strong historical theme, political intrigue, and that tension of having to cooperate and betray simultaneously, 1793: Patriots & Traitors is a great pick! The way multi-use cards and area influence combine to create this revolutionary chaos is its main strength.

Highlights
  • Thematic revolutionary chaos
  • Clever multi-use cards
  • Semi-cooperative tension
  • High asymmetrical replayability
Keep in mind
  • High language dependency
  • Steep initial learning curve
  • Can feel chaotic
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Welcome to France in 1792, a simmering cauldron of revolution, hunger, and external threats! Three years after the fall of the monarchy, the people cry out for change, but the guillotine is already sharpening its blades for 'traitors.' You and your rivals are divided into political factions – radicals, moderates, conservatives – each with its own secret agenda. The goal? To lead the revolution your way or, at the very least, ensure you survive this political rollercoaster. But beware, Madame Guillotine spares no one!

The game plunges you into the chaos between August 1792 and July 1794, a turbulent period that saw France descend into coups d'état and civil wars. Although you are declared rivals, an external threat unites everyone: the armies of Austria, Prussia, and Sardinia-Piedmont are marching on Paris to crush the revolution. You will need to collaborate to defend France, even as you plot against each other. Use your multi-use cards to influence crucial areas in Paris, such as the National Convention or the streets, and in the provinces. Control these areas to gain benefits, stage coups, or even start a civil war. Remember that iconic leaders like Robespierre and Marat can aid you, but only if they aren't arrested or assassinated first!

1793: Patriots & Traitors is an asymmetrical game, full of twists and turns, with extremely high replayability, immersing you headfirst into the atmosphere of the French Revolution. Prepare yourself for a revolutionary sandbox where alliances are fragile and betrayal always lurks.
Rules videos

In English

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Game details

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Components: Map (City Scale) Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Country: Austria Country: France Country: Prussia Crowdfunding: Gamefound History: French Revolutionary Wars
Publisher Sound of Drums GmbH
Designer Jason St.Just
Artist Marc von Martial
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can participate in 1793: Patriots & Traitors?
The game is for 1 to 5 players. It shines in solo play as well as in smaller or larger groups, adapting the dynamics accordingly.
What is the average playtime?
Be prepared to set aside 30 to 120 minutes. Depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules, it can vary significantly.
Is the game cooperative or competitive?
It's a semi-cooperative game! You need to work together to prevent the external enemies from winning, but in the end, only one player (or faction) will emerge as the great leader of the revolution.
Do I need to know a lot about the French Revolution to play?
It's not mandatory, but it enhances immersion! The game is quite thematic and explains events through cards and actions, but knowing the context enriches the experience.
Is the game very complex?
With a BGG weight of 3.125/5, it falls into the medium-high complexity category. There's a lot to manage with the cards and influence, but the worker placement mechanic is familiar to many.
Does the game require translation?
Yes, absolutely! There is considerable language dependency, with a lot of text on the cards and board. A full translation is essential for comfortable play.
Who would you recommend 1793: Patriots & Traitors for?
I'd recommend it for those who love games with a strong historical theme, enjoy negotiation and political intrigue, and don't mind a bit of chaos and the need to translate the game.