Gangsters

The Avalon Hill Game Co · Board game · 1992
2–5 · best 4 120 min Weight 2.5/5
rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy a mafia game with a touch of humor and plenty of adrenaline, Gangsters is the perfect choice. The water pistol is a hilarious differentiator!

Highlights
  • Real-time adrenaline rush
  • Engaging mafia theme
  • Hilarious water pistol interaction
  • Multiple paths to victory
  • Interesting replayability
Keep in mind
  • Might not appeal to everyone
  • Requires quick decision-making
  • Direct and comical interaction
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Alright, boss! How about diving into Prohibition-era Chicago and leading your own gang? In Gangsters, you and your rivals compete for control of the city, fighting over strategic locations like speakeasies, gambling joints, and protection rackets. The goal is to draw customers to your establishments while keeping the 'coppers' off your trail. With the help of your racketeers, thugs, and vamps, you'll try to dominate businesses and fill your pockets with money from the 'unsuspecting' public.

But get ready for the adrenaline, because the game is real-time! Each turn is timed, and decisions need to be quick and accurate. And the best part? If someone gets shot, the included water pistol comes into play to give the unlucky player a soaking! Yes, you read that right: a water pistol to hilariously punish opponents. There are several strategies to lead your gang to victory, but be warned: in the five-player version, one of you will have to play as the police. Who will be the lucky one to draw the short straw and try to arrest their own friends? It's a unique experience, full of intrigue, action, and guaranteed laughs!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 BEST
4 BEST
5 OK
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Mechanics

Categories

Families

Components: Toy Guns / Pistols
Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
Designer Don Greenwood, Gérard Mathieu
Artist Charles Kibler, Dave Dobyski, George I. Parrish, Jr.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can participate in Gangsters?
The game is designed for 2 to 5 players, but the experience changes slightly with 5, as one player becomes the police!
What is the average game duration?
Prepare for about 120 minutes of pure action and intrigue. It's a game that keeps you hooked from start to finish!
What is the complexity level of Gangsters?
It's considered a medium-weight game (2.48/5 on BGG), so it has reasonable complexity, but nothing a good boss can't handle.
Do the components include the water pistol?
Yes, the famous water pistol is included in the box! It's an essential part of the fun and the game's 'punishments'.
Who is this game recommended for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy thematic mafia games with real-time and action point mechanics, and don't mind a good dose of humor and direct player interaction.
Do I need to know English to play?
No, language dependency is minimal. The rules are easy to understand, and the components are very intuitive.