La Cosa Nostra

Baldar, Choo Choo Games, Edge Entertainment · Board game · 2014
3–5 · best 4 90 min Weight 2.6/5
8.8 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 12.69
8.8 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

If you enjoy a mafia game with lots of negotiation, bluffing, and that backstabbing twist that keeps you on the edge of your seat, La Cosa Nostra is for you! It's the kind of game that creates memorable stories.

Highlights
  • Intense negotiation and bluffing
  • Engaging mafia theme
  • Constant plot twists
  • Secret actions and betrayal
Keep in mind
  • Can be chaotic
  • Relies on player interaction
  • Low dice luck factor
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About the game

What you do in a play session

In La Cosa Nostra, you're not just playing a game, you're living the dream (or nightmare?) of being a mafia boss! You start by controlling a few goons and some businesses, but the goal is to expand. Think about hiring more muscle to do the dirty work and, of course, bring the cash home. Every investment can open new business ventures or give you a monopoly – who doesn't want to control drugs, loan sharking, or prostitution? And don't forget politics and the police: bribery is key! Your profits can go into nightclubs, casinos, or even the waste management industry (nobody suspects that!).

The game forces you to negotiate with rival families. You'll need them to close bigger deals, but trust them at your own peril. Betrayal is the name of the game, and whoever is quickest to stab you in the back comes out ahead. Each player uses gangster cards to earn money or attack opponents. Actions are planned secretly, revealed all at once, and sometimes you need specific business cards. If you don't have them, it's time to bargain, spy, threaten, and deceive everyone. There are four rounds, and with each one, new action cards emerge, more henchmen join the gang, possibilities expand, jobs become more profitable, and attacks more lethal. Cooperation becomes tempting, but betrayal is even more irresistible, because at the end of the day, what really matters is the money in your pocket. Get ready for a tense game full of twists and turns!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–5 players
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Crowdfunding: Wspieram Series: Master Print (Quined)
Publisher Baldar, Choo Choo Games, Edge Entertainment, Hard Boiled Games, Niza Gams, Quined Games
Designer Johannes Sich
Artist Johannes Sich

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
What is the average playtime for La Cosa Nostra?
A game of La Cosa Nostra typically lasts around 90 minutes, so set aside some good time to dive into the world of organized crime!
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 3 to 5 players. With more people, the negotiation and betrayal dynamics become even more interesting!
Is the game very difficult to learn?
La Cosa Nostra has a medium complexity (2.58/5 on BGG), meaning the rules aren't super complex but require attention. It's a game that rewards those who understand the mechanics and player interaction.
Do I need to know English to play?
The game has a moderate language dependency. The cards have text, so it's recommended to have a translated reference sheet or printed cards with translations to facilitate gameplay.
Who is La Cosa Nostra recommended for?
It's perfect for those who enjoy games with a lot of interaction, negotiation, bluffing, and a strong mafia theme. If you like games where betrayal is an option (and often the best one!), you'll love it.
What if I don't like 'take that' games?
La Cosa Nostra features 'take that' mechanics, where you can negatively affect other players. If this bothers you, it might be good to try it before buying, but it's part of the rivalry theme.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find many cards (gangsters, businesses, actions), dice for some resolutions, and tokens to track your businesses and influence.

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