Black Orchestra

Game Salute, Galakta, Ludonova · Board game · 2016
1–5 · best 3 Solo 90 min Weight 2.4/5
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

A must-play for history buffs and tension seekers, featuring a paranoia-driven atmosphere that keeps you on edge.

Highlights
  • Visceral espionage atmosphere
  • Unique historical characters
  • Real tension with the Gestapo
  • Intriguing interrogation dynamics
Keep in mind
  • High language dependency
  • Dice luck can be frustrating
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Imagine being part of a secret group of officers and patriots infiltrated at the heart of the Third Reich. In Black Orchestra, you and your friends take on the roles of real historical figures who attempted the most dangerous mission of all: assassinating Hitler to save Germany from total ruin. But it's not as simple as pulling a trigger; you need planning, resources, and above all, discretion.

Gameplay revolves around managing the constant tension between the need to act and the risk of being caught. You spend action points to move through Berlin, search for essential items, and exchange information. Want to speed things up? You can push your luck by rolling dice to gain extra actions, but be careful: the Gestapo is always watching. The bolder you are, the higher your 'suspicion' level. If suspicion climbs too high, you might be arrested and interrogated, potentially compromising the entire group.

The game unfolds across seven chronological stages of World War II, with event cards that shift the scenario and open new areas of the map. To win, the group must plan and execute a plot, gathering specific requirements (such as detonators and Hitler's exact location). The tension peaks during the execution, where dice rolls and the conspirator's security level determine if the plan succeeds or if the 'Black Orchestra' is silenced forever.

The standout feature is the cooperative dynamic: no one wins alone. The game mitigates the 'alpha player' problem by introducing uncertainties and moments of solitary decision-making, especially when a player is arrested and must decide, in secret, whether to betray their comrades or resist interrogation. It is an immersive experience that simulates the paranoia and the weight of decisions made by those who gambled their lives for an ideal.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
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Game details

Families

Cities: Berlin (Germany) Country: Germany Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: VASSAL History: Resistance during WW2 in Europe Misc: LongPack Games Players: Games with Solitaire Rules
Publisher Game Salute, Galakta, Ludonova, Matagot, Rexhry, Starling Games (II)
Designer Philip duBarry
Artist Cody Jones, Dann May, Lucas Soriano
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game very complex?
It is considered an 'Expert' game. The rules are detailed and risk management requires focus, so it's not for absolute beginners.
Can I play it solo?
Yes! The game has solid solitaire rules, allowing you to manage the conspiracy on your own.
How long does a game take?
On average 90 minutes, though this varies depending on how cautious (or bold) the players are.
Is it language dependent?
Yes, there is high language dependency due to event cards and plot requirements, so you'll need a translation if you aren't fluent.
Is the game purely luck-based?
No, while dice introduce randomness, victory depends on group planning, hand management, and deciding which risks are worth taking.