Scarface 1920

Redzen Games, Grimspire, SD Games · Board game · 2023
1–4 · best 3 Solo 90–150 min Weight 3.8/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.9 rating BGG
Buy
100.0 rating Ludopedia
7.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love mobsters, strategy, and a 1920s Chicago setting, this game’s for you!

Highlights
  • Unique mechanic blend
  • Detailed miniatures and map
  • Engaging solo mode
Keep in mind
  • Long playtime
  • Moderate to high complexity
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

Scarface 1920 drops you into the fight for control of Chicago in the 1920s, when alcohol was banned and organized crime ruled the streets. You take the helm of a gang, recruiting new members, spreading influence across the city, and running bootlegging operations. The game blends two familiar mechanics: worker placement and deck‑building. Each player places workers on board areas—streets, bars, factories—while simultaneously building a deck of cards representing contracts, resources, and special actions. The mix creates a constant flow of decisions: where to place the next worker? Which card to draw from your deck? How to maximize area control for influence points?

The twist lies in the unique abilities of each gang, embodied in the boss you pick. Every leader brings powers that change how you play, whether it’s easing recruitment, boosting income, or offering end‑game bonuses. That means each game can follow a different path, even with the same rule set. Plus, there’s a solo mode where you face the challenge of keeping your operation alive against Eliot Ness’s federal agents.

The components are top‑notch: detailed miniatures of gangsters, a Chicago city‑scale map that serves as the battlefield, and internal trays that keep everything organized. The production was crowdfunded on two platforms, showing the community’s enthusiasm. In short, Scarface 1920 is a complex yet accessible game that blends long‑term strategy with day‑to‑day tactical decisions, all set in a crime‑and‑power backdrop that will excite any mafia fan.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

8 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 BEST

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Cities: Chicago (Illinois, USA) Components: Game Trayz Inside Components: Map (City Scale) Components: Miniatures Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Crowdfunding: Spieleschmiede Decades: The 1920's History: Prohibition in the USA History: Roaring Twenties (1920-1929) Theme: Mystery / Crime
Publisher Redzen Games, Grimspire, SD Games, Spiele-Offensive.de
Designer Daniel Simon, Toni Serradesanferm
Artist Antonio Stappaerts

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How long does a typical game last?
Between 90 and 150 minutes, depending on player count and experience level.
What’s the player count?
1 to 4 players, with solo or multiplayer options.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It’s best for players who already have some familiarity with worker placement and deck‑building, but it can be learned with practice.
What are the main components?
Gangster miniatures, a city‑scale map of Chicago, internal trays, contract cards, worker tokens, and influence markers.
Is there a solo mode?
Yes, there’s a solo mode that pits you against Eliot Ness’s federal agents, requiring different strategies.
What’s the difficulty level?
Moderate to high complexity, with strategic decisions at multiple levels.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games