Illegal

Ars Ludi · Board game · 2000
2–6 30 min Weight 1.3/5
6.4 rating Ludopedia
4.3 rating BGG
Buy
6.4 rating Ludopedia
4.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love bluffing and intense social interaction. The courtroom dynamic is the highlight.

Highlights
  • Frantic and fun social interaction
  • Fast-paced and dynamic matches
  • Ironic and engaging theme
  • Simple rules to learn
Keep in mind
  • Heavily dependent on group energy
  • Can be too chaotic for quiet players
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Ever thought about building your own criminal empire without the boring part of actually going to jail? In Illegal, you step into the shoes of a dealer of... shall we say... 'questionable' merchandise. The goal here is simple and straightforward: make as much cash as possible, by any means necessary. It's the kind of game where ethics are left at the door and cunning is your best tool.

The dynamics revolve around buying and selling dangerous and illicit products, but there's a crucial detail: you must operate in the shadows. The challenge is to negotiate your items without tipping off your opponents, keeping your preferences and your stock a secret. If you're careless, your rivals will figure out exactly what you're holding and use that information against you.

But the real fun begins when the law comes knocking. The game features a courtroom system where things get heated and betrayal is the rule. It's that chaotic moment where everyone starts pointing fingers at their neighbor, trying to save their own skin while sending everyone else behind bars. It's a game of bluffing, deduction, and heavy social interaction, perfect for those who enjoy laughing at others' misfortunes while trying to get rich illegally.

With fast-paced matches and accessible rules, Illegal transforms the table into a true black market, where trust is a luxury you simply cannot afford. If you enjoy party games with a touch of irony and plenty of player provocation, this title is the right choice to energize your group.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
6 OK
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Game details

Categories

Publisher Ars Ludi
Designer Martin Drewes, Michael Palm
Artist Christiana Hasenfuß
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game complex?
Not at all! It's a party game with simple rules, focusing more on player interaction than long manuals.
How long does a game last?
Matches are quite fast, around 30 minutes, making it great for playing multiple rounds in one night.
How many people can play?
From 2 to 6 players. The more people, the more chaotic and fun the courtroom becomes!
Is it recommended for casual gamers?
Absolutely. Being a casual card game, it's an excellent entry point for those who enjoy party and bluffing games.
Is there a language barrier?
No, the mechanics are based on cards and negotiation, so the language doesn't hinder the gameplay.