—
rating
Ludopedia
7.0
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
If you're into noir mysteries and solo games that make you think, this comic-themed "Roll and Write" is for you! The tension of racing against time to save your partner is the highlight.
Highlights
- Engaging investigation and narrative
- Tense race against time
- Well-executed noir theme
- Focused solo gameplay
Keep in mind
- Resource management can be tough
- Dice luck can be a factor
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready for a new noir adventure! Moonlight: Episode 1 – The Hostage puts you in the shoes of Dexter "Sly" Harrigan, a private investigator with less than three weeks to rescue his kidnapped partner. Guess who's behind it? Big Louie "The Claw" Marconi, of course! But you've already got a plan.
This game is a "Roll and Write" set in the dark universe of Midnight City. Each day that passes on the game's calendar, you'll roll six dice and use the results to perform investigation actions, hustle around the city, or search areas you've already investigated. The goal is to gather clues to level up your skills and eliminate map areas where the hostage is NOT located. But beware: at the end of each week, you must make an escalating ransom payment! To get the cash, you'll need to pull off some heists, using a special overlay board and your skills to maximize your loot. Afterwards, you'll return to your detective duties to plant evidence and frame Big Louie.
The objective is to save your partner before time runs out or the police catch on to your crime spree. You win by incriminating Big Louie, paying the ransom, or finding the hostage on the map. It's a solo game with a comic book feel and plenty of investigation, perfect for those who enjoy a good mystery and aren't afraid to get their hands dirty.
This game is a "Roll and Write" set in the dark universe of Midnight City. Each day that passes on the game's calendar, you'll roll six dice and use the results to perform investigation actions, hustle around the city, or search areas you've already investigated. The goal is to gather clues to level up your skills and eliminate map areas where the hostage is NOT located. But beware: at the end of each week, you must make an escalating ransom payment! To get the cash, you'll need to pull off some heists, using a special overlay board and your skills to maximize your loot. Afterwards, you'll return to your detective duties to plant evidence and frame Big Louie.
The objective is to save your partner before time runs out or the police catch on to your crime spree. You win by incriminating Big Louie, paying the ransom, or finding the hostage on the map. It's a solo game with a comic book feel and plenty of investigation, perfect for those who enjoy a good mystery and aren't afraid to get their hands dirty.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
1
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Aerobellum Games
Designer
Matthew Folger
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
95owners
21wishlist
2want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can play?
This game is designed exclusively for one player (solo).
How long does a game take?
A game typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.
What is the game's complexity?
Complexity hasn't been formally rated yet, but the "Roll and Write" mechanic with time and resource management suggests a moderate level.
Do I need to print the game?
Yes, Moonlight: Episode 1 is a "Print & Play" game, so you'll need to print the components yourself.
What else do I need to play besides the printed files?
You'll need 6 standard dice, pencils, and possibly an overlay board for the heist actions, which is also part of the printable material.
Who is this game recommended for?
It's ideal for fans of solo games, noir detectives, comic books, and those who enjoy "Roll and Write" games with a strong theme and management challenges.
Does the game have sequels or expansions?
This is "Episode 1" of the Moonlight series, indicating there might be future episodes, but it's a complete game on its own for now.
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