Dread Curse

Smirk & Dagger Games · Board game · 2013
7.8 Ludopedia 6.3 BGG 3–8 · best 5 30 min Weight 1.8/5
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7.8 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Dread Curse is the perfect choice for those wanting a night of laughter and pirate chaos with larger groups. The push-your-luck mechanic combined with direct theft creates constant tension, keeping everyone glued to the table. It's a light, fast-paced game ideal for those who don't mind a bit of friendly backstabbing.

Highlights
  • Constant player interaction
  • Fast and dynamic gameplay
  • Great for large groups
  • Fun asymmetric powers
Keep in mind
  • High luck factor
  • Can cause intense conflicts
  • Requires a fun-loving group
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About the game

What you do in a play session

In Dread Curse, you and your friends step into the boots of greedy pirates hunting for legendary loot, but there’s a catch: the treasure is cursed! The game revolves around a bag filled with gold coins and, of course, the dreaded Black Spot. Your goal is straightforward yet dangerous: amass the biggest treasure stash before the game ends. Each round, you must decide whether to stop while you’re ahead or push your luck by drawing more from the bag, all while trying to sabotage your crewmates' plans.

The real charm lies in the asymmetry. Every player takes on a specific crew role, and each position grants a special 'cheat' ability or a unique way to interact with the treasure bag. Will you use your rank to pilfer coins from your rivals or to shield yourself from the curse? The game forces you to keep a close eye on everyone else, as memory and bluffing are essential to figuring out who is holding the Black Spot and who is just faking it.

This is a fast-paced game, perfect for larger groups (up to 8 players!), where the tension builds with every coin drawn. The bidding system to determine the captain and crew roles adds an extra layer of strategy: do you sacrifice some of your current gold to secure a better power for the next turn? That’s the question that will haunt you throughout the session.

If you enjoy 'take-that' games where interaction is constant and no one is safe, Dread Curse will shine on your table. Don't expect a heavy eurogame; here, the fun comes from unexpected twists, the laughter when someone pulls the Black Spot, and that 'just one more coin' feeling that almost always ends in disaster. It’s the kind of game that creates memorable stories and, likely, some temporary rivalries. Ready your ship, sharpen your greed, and try not to be the pirate carrying the curse when the game ends. It’s chaotic, it’s fun, and above all, it’s a wild race for gold!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–8 players
3 REC
4 REC
5 BEST
6 BEST
7 REC
8 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher Smirk & Dagger Games
Designer Stuart Sisk
Artist Lindsey Look

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,309owners
168wishlist
27want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can join?
The game accommodates 3 to 8 pirates, making it great for larger groups.
How long does a game last?
It's a very fast game, lasting about 30 minutes.
Is the game hard to learn?
Not at all, the weight is low (1.83/5), making it easy to teach and play on any occasion.
What happens if I get the Black Spot?
If you end the game with it in your stash, you lose automatically. The goal is to pass it on!
Is there a lot of player interaction?
Yes, the focus is entirely on stealing and hindering other players.
Does it require a lot of strategy?
More than pure strategy, you need memory, bluffing skills, and knowing when to stop pushing your luck.

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