Before I Kill You, Mister Spy...

Cheapass Games · Board game · 1996
— Ludopedia 5.4 BGG 2–6 · best 4 30 min Weight 1.3/5
Buy · from US$ 10.95
— rating Ludopedia
5.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love spying on villains and risky choices, this game will crack you up.

Highlights
  • Irreverent humor
  • Simple mechanics
  • Quick rounds
Keep in mind
  • Basic artwork
  • Luck dependent
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Before I Kill You, Mister Spy... is a tongue‑in‑cheek card game that casts each player as a wacky villain building a remote fortress and snatching secret agents. Players draw cards to erect their base, capture an agent, and then decide whether to kill the spy immediately or let him suffer a more entertaining fate—like being eaten by sharks. The fun comes from postponing the kill: the longer the agent lives, the higher the chance another player will play an escape card that blows up your fortress. This push‑your‑luck tension produces laughs and gasps, as nobody wants to be the first to lose everything over a careless move. Rounds are quick, about 30 minutes, and the game supports 2 to 6 players, making it perfect for casual get‑togethers. The rules are straightforward—learn the building, capture, and sabotage cards—but strategic depth emerges as you balance risk versus reward. The artwork is deliberately simple, echoing Cheapass Games' style, and the 2016 re‑release added more cards and color, increasing variety. If you enjoy spy‑themed games, goofy humor, and risky decision‑making, this title is a solid pick for laid‑back evenings.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Families

Books: James Bond Misc: Self-Referential Games
Publisher Cheapass Games
Designer James Ernest
Artist Cheyenne Wright, James Ernest

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2,672owners
97wishlist
22want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How many players can join?
2 to 6 players, perfect for small to medium groups.
How long does a game take?
About 30 minutes, varying slightly with player count.
What is the game's complexity?
Low to medium; easy rules but risk decisions add depth.
What components are included?
A colorful deck of cards, fortress markers, and a concise rulebook.
Who should buy this game?
Fans of spy themes, lighthearted humor, and push‑your‑luck mechanics.

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