London 1888

NekoCorp · Board game · 2005
4–8 · best 6 90 min Weight 2.7/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
5.3 rating BGG
Buy
100.0 rating Ludopedia
5.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Perfect for those who love Victorian mysteries and hidden identity games with high tension.

Highlights
  • Immersive and dark atmosphere
  • Surprising twists across phases
  • Intriguing betrayal dynamics
Keep in mind
  • High language dependency
  • Moderate learning curve
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Put on your overcoat and grab your lantern because you're about to dive into the foggy and dangerous streets of Victorian London. In London 1888, the tension is palpable: Jack the Ripper has already claimed his first victims, and the city is in a state of total panic. The big question is: will you be the brilliant mind that finally handcuffs the most famous serial killer in history, or will you be the one ensuring he escapes unscathed?

The experience is divided into three dramatic acts. At first, players move through the city in a frantic search for clues, useful items, and weapons, trying to piece together the puzzle of the killer's true identity. But don't be fooled; not everything is as it seems. In the second phase, the masks fall and roles are revealed. This is where the game shifts, as you discover whether you are truly fighting for justice or secretly working to aid the villain's escape.

In the final act, alliances solidify and players group up based on their hidden objectives for the climax of the hunt. It's a game of deduction, strategy, and deep suspicion, where cooperation is necessary, but loyalty is highly questionable. If you enjoy that noir mystery vibe, with the feeling that someone at the table might be betraying you while pretending to help, this game is the perfect choice. Keep in mind that the immersion is high, but the language dependency is strong, so be prepared to need a translation to enjoy every detail of the plot. If you want to expand this hunt even further, the Whitechapel expansion is available to deepen the experience.

Best player count

BGG community vote

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

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Categories

Families

Cities: London (England, UK) Components: Map (City Scale) Country: England Historical Figures: Jack the Ripper
Publisher NekoCorp
Designer Damien Maric
Artist Stephan Kot

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Is the game truly cooperative?
Yes, but with a twist: there are hidden objectives. You might think you're cooperating, but you could be working against the group!
Do I need fluent English to play?
Yes, the language dependency is high. You'll need a translation to understand the clues and roles.
How many people can play?
The game accommodates 4 to 8 players, making it great for larger groups who enjoy social interaction.
How long does a game last?
Around 90 minutes on average, depending on how quickly the group can deduce the clues.
Is it a very complex game?
It has a medium weight (2.66). It's not a 'gateway' game, but nothing impossible for those already into board gaming.
What's in the box?
A city-scale map, item cards, clues, and the secret character roles.

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