Salem

Passport Game Studios, Rock Paper Scissors Games · Board game · 2016
3–7 · best 6 90–180 min Weight 2.8/5
7.6 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Buy
7.6 rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy an atmosphere of tension, paranoia, and social deduction, Salem is quite the pick! It's like a detective game with a dark twist.

Highlights
  • Engaging paranoia atmosphere
  • Sharp social deduction
  • Immersive historical theme
Keep in mind
  • Can lead to heated discussions
  • Requires an engaged group
  • Little individual replayability
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Get ready to feel the tension in Salem, 1692! The town has plunged into collective hysteria, where paranoia and fear take hold. You are the townsfolk trying to survive this witch hunt, but beware: among you are disguised witches! Each player controls a group of six residents, and the mission is clear: rid the town of witches without exposing your own townsfolk. The game unfolds over four rounds, each representing a critical month of the witch hunt. In each round, the 'Witch Hunt' takes place, where you send people to jail and try to arrange alibis for your own. Then comes the 'Witch Trial,' where everyone votes on who will be hanged. The goal is to be the smartest at identifying witches and protecting your own. Salem is an intense experience that throws you right into the dark and oppressive atmosphere of the time, with a hint of deduction and a lot of bluffing. The historical research behind the characters and events adds a special touch, making the immersion even greater. It's a game that tests your ability to read people and stay calm under pressure. If you enjoy games with strong themes and mechanics that make you think and interact with others, Salem might be your next obsession.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 OK
4 REC
5 BEST
6 BEST
7 BEST
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter States: Massachusetts Theme: Witches
Publisher Passport Game Studios, Rock Paper Scissors Games
Designer Joshua Gerald Balvin
Artist Levi Hastings
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players does Salem support?
Salem is for 3 to 7 players, and the experience gets more intense with more people at the table.
What is the average playtime?
Be prepared to dedicate 90 to 180 minutes. It's a game that requires time and attention.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
The complexity is moderate (2.8/5 on BGG). The basic rules are simple, but the strategy and social interaction require a bit more practice.
Is Salem a card game?
Although it has cards, Salem is not primarily classified as a card game. It fits better into the Deduction and Horror categories, with mechanics like voting and pattern recognition.
Who do you recommend Salem for?
We recommend Salem for those who enjoy social deduction games with a strong historical theme, and who don't mind a bit of 'drama' and discussion at the table. It works best with groups that enjoy this type of interaction.
Is there significant language dependency?
Language dependency is low. The text on cards and components is minimal and easy to memorize or translate, allowing non-English speakers to enjoy the game.