Debatable

Mindmade · Board game · 2017
3–16 · best 5, 7 30–120 min Weight 1.1/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 12.98
8.0 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

The perfect game for those who love chaotic debates and laughing with friends!

Highlights
  • Hilarious improvised debates
  • Supports massive player counts
  • Total engagement for all
  • Very simple rules
Keep in mind
  • Requires an energetic group
  • Relies heavily on improvisation
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About the game

What you do in a play session

You know that friend who just can't stop talking and thinks they have an answer for everything? Well, Debatable is the perfect playground for them! Get ready to step into a world of pure politics (the chaotic, hilarious kind) where the goal isn't necessarily to be right, but to convince the audience that you are the best orator in the room. The game casts everyone in the role of politicians ready for verbal combat, whether they are debating profound topics or the most ridiculous nonsense imaginable.

The gameplay is simple and fast-paced: in each round, two players are chosen to debate a specific topic. One defends a viewpoint while the other acts as the opposition. The secret to not embarrassing yourself (or embarrassing yourself with style) lies in the strategy cards that act as your 'trusted advisor.' These cards provide the necessary nudge to use absurd arguments or persuasion techniques that can flip the game at any moment. Once the talking time is up, the rest of the group isn't just watching: everyone votes on who they felt won the debate.

What makes Debatable a party champion is the fact that no one is left out. While two players are in the 'eye of the storm,' everyone else is fully engaged in judging, voting, and laughing at the gems coming out of the debaters' mouths. With a player count ranging from 3 to an impressive 16 people, the game scales beautifully as more guests arrive. It is quick, loud, and above all, extremely social. If you enjoy games where your ability to improvise and your charisma are your best weapons, start preparing your speech, because the election campaign is about to begin!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–16 players
3 OK
4 REC
5 BEST
6 REC
7 BEST
8 REC
9 BEST
10 BEST
11 BEST
12 BEST
13 BEST
14 BEST
15 BEST
16 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Publisher Mindmade
Designer Elin Holmgren, Magnus Holmgren
Artist Darko Krgovic

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

585owners
96wishlist
5want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How many people actually have fun?
The game shines with medium to large groups (8+), but works fine from 3 players.
Is it hard to learn?
Not at all! The rules are intuitive and the focus is on conversation, not complex math.
How long does a game last?
It depends on the number of players, but usually between 30 and 90 minutes.
Do I need to be a good speaker?
It helps, but the game provides strategy cards specifically to support your improvisation!
Is it suitable for kids?
The theme is political and topics can be adult-oriented, so we recommend ages 12+ or 14+.

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