Master Thieves

LudoArt Verlag, Rio Grande Games, Zoch Verlag · Board game · 2004
2–8 · best 4 60 min Weight 2.4/5
rating Ludopedia
6.6 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you're into games with stunning components and a blend of memory and deduction, Master Thieves is a rare gem! Perfect for those who love to bluff and try to guess what others are up to.

Highlights
  • Luxurious wooden components
  • Engaging memory mechanic
  • Constant deduction and bluffing
  • Fun player interaction
  • Variable powers add replayability
Keep in mind
  • Might not suit all tastes
  • Relies heavily on memory
  • Scales better with more players
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

Master Thieves is a truly unique game that stands out not only for its gameplay but also for its impeccable presentation, arriving in a wooden box that's a showstopper in itself. At the heart of the game is a wooden jewelry case, resembling a necklace, featuring three levels that can rotate independently. Each level has a drawer on each side, and the case is symmetrical, allowing it to be flipped upside down without issue. This ingenious contraption sets the perfect stage for your gem-heist mission!

At the start of the game, each player secretly chooses a role: you could be the Wife, the Jeweler, the Detective, or the Master Thief. Each role comes with its own unique abilities and objectives, adding a layer of strategy and bluffing to the game. The main goal is to collect the largest haul of precious gems, but how you achieve this depends on your character and cunning. The memory mechanic is crucial, as you'll need to remember where gems are hidden and which drawers have been opened. Simultaneous action selection means everyone decides their moves at the same time, creating moments of tension and surprise when actions are revealed. It's a game that blends deduction, memory, and a party game feel, ideal for those who enjoy a mental challenge with a dash of social interaction.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–8 players
2 REC
3 OK
4 BEST
5 REC
6 REC
7 REC
8 REC

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Gems/Crystals Components: Wooden pieces & boards
Publisher LudoArt Verlag, Rio Grande Games, Zoch Verlag
Designer Czarnè
Artist Czarnè

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

897owners
388wishlist
135want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the ideal player count for Master Thieves?
Master Thieves supports 2 to 8 players, but it truly shines with larger groups (4-6 players) where interaction and bluffing are significantly enhanced.
What is the average game length?
A game of Master Thieves typically takes between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of players and each person's decision-making speed.
Is it a complex game to learn?
No! The rules are relatively simple and easy to grasp, making it accessible for newcomers, but the strategic depth emerges from interactions and deduction.
What are the main components of the game?
The highlight is the wooden jewelry case with rotating drawers, along with various colorful gems and character cards with their unique powers.
Who is Master Thieves recommended for?
It's perfect for anyone looking for a party game with a strategic twist, involving memory, deduction, and plenty of player interaction. If you appreciate beautiful game components, you'll love this!
Are there any expansions for the game?
Yes, the game has an expansion called 'Master Thieves: Expansion Cards,' which adds new cards and possibilities to your games.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games