Hoax (Second Edition)

Asterion Press, Delta Vision Publishing, Edge Entertainment · Board game · 2016
3–6 · best 5 10–20 min Weight 1.8/5
7.4 rating Ludopedia
5.9 rating BGG
Buy
7.4 rating Ludopedia
5.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love party games packed with bluffing and twists, Hoax grabs you from the first vote.

Highlights
  • Fast, tense pacing
  • Easy‑to‑learn bluffing
  • Voting creates laughs
  • Light memory use
Keep in mind
  • Wrong accusation kicks you out
  • Needs solid memory
  • Quiet players can stall
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

When the unscrupulous magnate Vargas meets an ignoble end, his fortune becomes the prize in a cut‑throat contest of lies and accusations. In Hoax (Second Edition), 3‑6 players take secret roles – family members or household staff – and must eliminate rivals by catching them in a false statement. One false accusation, however, sends the accuser out of the game. To make informed accusations you gather resources (investigation cards) and spend them to learn what others are lying about. Each round has two phases: first, everyone reveals cards that provide clues or resources; then the voting phase begins, where anyone can point a finger at a suspect. If the accusation is correct, the accused leaves; if it’s wrong, the accuser is eliminated. The trick is balancing defense – avoiding being caught in a lie – with offense – sowing doubt in others. The game is fast, 10‑20 minutes, with light rules (weight 1.8/5), making it ideal for parties or casual get‑togethers. Memory comes into play as you try to recall who’s already been investigated or who still holds valuable cards. Voting adds tension and laughter as everyone tries to convince the group that their story is the most believable. In the end, the player who survives the web of lies and lands a correct accusation claims the inheritance. It’s a blend of bluffing, deduction and mystery that sparks conversation and plenty of “did‑you‑see‑that?” moments, perfect for fans of quick, social, twist‑filled games.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

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

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Publisher Asterion Press, Delta Vision Publishing, Edge Entertainment, Fantasy Flight Games, Galakta, Heidelberger Spieleverlag
Designer Bill Eberle, Edward Horn, Jr., Jack Kittredge, Peter Olotka
Artist Andrew Christensen, Brian Schomburg, Deb Freytag, Evan Simonet, Lucas Soriano

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can join?
3 to 6 players, perfect for medium‑sized groups.
How long does a game take?
Typically 10‑20 minutes, depending on player count.
What is the complexity level?
Light (weight 1.8/5); rules are straightforward and quick to learn.
What components are included?
Identity cards, resource/investigation cards, resource tokens, and a rule booklet.
Who is the game best suited for?
Fans of social, bluffing, deduction games that play fast.
Do I need a good memory?
It helps, but most decisions rely on information revealed during play.
Can I play with fewer than 3 players?
No, the game requires at least 3 players for meaningful competition.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games