Counterfeiters

Quined Games · Board game · 2018
2–4 · best 4 35 min Weight 2.1/5
7.6 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
7.6 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love a mix of crime, cards, and worker placement, this game will win you over!

Highlights
  • Real cash at stake
  • Engaging mafia protection
  • Miami and animal themes
Keep in mind
  • Police can bust your operation
  • Protection comes at a price
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In Counterfeiters, you step into the shoes of a bill counterfeiter trying to amass the most real cash, but it won’t be easy: the police are always on the lookout and the mafia don’s tax is steep. Set in bustling Miami, each player controls three animal tokens that represent their counterfeit operations. At the start of each round you place one of these tokens on one of the board’s spots—each spot offers a unique action: buying component cards, printing fake money, swapping fakes for real cash, or stashing your loot offshore. The choice of spot determines your long‑term strategy, because each spot can only be used by one player per round. Meanwhile, the game keeps the tension high: low‑quality fakes are quickly invalidated by the cops, and the don can shield you from investigations, but every use costs more. You must balance the protection cost with the need to keep your money out of the police’s sights. To win, you simply need to be the player with the most real money at the end of the game. The worker placement mechanic is clear, but the interplay between component cards, fake money, and mafia protection adds a layer of strategy that keeps the game dynamic and competitive. If you enjoy crime‑themed games, card combos, and worker placement, Counterfeiters offers a fun experience that mixes humor, police tension, and don negotiations. The game runs about 35 minutes, supports 2‑4 players, and has a moderate complexity—great for those who want something lighter than heavy strategy but with enough depth to keep the conversation lively.
Rules videos

In English

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Game details

Mechanics

Categories

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Cities: Miami (Florida, USA) Series: Master Print Pocket (Quined) Theme: Anthropomorphic Animals Theme: Mystery / Crime
Publisher Quined Games
Designer Olivier Bourgeois
Artist Ian O'Toole
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
Counterfeiters supports 2 to 4 players, giving a balanced experience for pairs or larger groups.
What is the average game length?
The game lasts about 35 minutes, making it perfect for quick sessions or fitting into a game night.
What is the complexity level?
The complexity is moderate: you manage resources, decide where to place your workers, and negotiate with the don, but there are no overly complicated rules.
What are the main components?
The game includes a worker‑placement board, component cards, fake and real money tokens, and animal pawns for each player.
Who is this game recommended for?
It’s ideal for those who enjoy crime themes, mafia negotiations, and worker‑placement mechanics in a short, dynamic format.
How does worker placement work?
Each round you place one of your pawns on available spots; each spot offers a unique action, and each spot can only be used by one player per round.
What’s the difference between fake and real money in the game?
Fake money can be exchanged for real, but if it’s low quality it can be invalidated by the police; the goal is to accumulate as much real money as possible.