Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
Want to brag about a criminal past in a fast and fun game? The Judge in Circuit is your pick!
Highlights
- Fun and unique theme
- Quick and accessible gameplay
- Player interaction
Keep in mind
- Luck-dependent outcomes
- Can become repetitive
- Luck can be frustrating
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
Put on your best suit and your most notorious grin, because in 'The Judge in Circuit' you'll want to be the most infamous crook around! The premise is straightforward: criminals gather to brag about the prison time they've served, and the more time, the better. Your goal? Be the first to rack up a specific number of prison sentences. But don't be fooled, the road to jail isn't a straight shot! To get arrested, you need to be in the wrong place at the wrong time – specifically, on a Crime Square when a Policeman shows up. Once nabbed, you're sent straight to 'The Cells,' awaiting trial. If the Judge finds you Guilty (which is most likely, depending on your crime and the presiding judge), prepare for a sentence. The length and type of imprisonment vary, but you're only out when your sentence is served, you escape, get remission, or someone else gets you off the hook. Of course, sometimes luck strikes and you're found Not Guilty, unexpectedly placed on Probation, or sent for Re-Trial. And don't forget the Luck cards, which can completely flip the game! It's a wild race where other players' actions and a touch of luck dictate your fate. A fast-paced and fun game that's a complete departure from other titles by the same designer, Francis Tresham.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
OK
3
OK
4
OK
5
OK
6
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
Loading playlist...
Where to Buy
Prices monitored daily
Finding best prices...
Prices unavailable at this time.
Price history — last 6 months (lowest new offer)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.
Alert enabled!
Join the BoardGamesBot deals group
Get the best board game deals every day — without message spam.
Join the WhatsApp groupGame details
Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Publisher
Tresham Games
Designer
Francis Tresham
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
38owners
14wishlist
7want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many people can play The Judge in Circuit?
The game is for 2 to 6 players, so you can gather your friends or play with just one other person.
How long does a game typically last?
Games are quite fast, usually lasting between 15 and 45 minutes. Perfect for those short on time or who want to play multiple rounds.
Is the game difficult to learn?
Not at all! With a BGG weight of 1 out of 5, it's very easy to grasp the rules. Ideal for beginners or those seeking a lighter experience.
What is the main objective of the game?
The goal is to be the first player to accumulate a specific number of prison sentences, effectively scoring 'jail time'.
How do arrest and trial work?
You need to be caught by a Policeman on a 'Crime Square.' Then, you go to 'The Cells' and await a Judge. Being found Guilty sends you to prison, Not Guilty sets you free, and sometimes you get probation or a re-trial.
What are the 'Luck Cards'?
These cards introduce an element of chance and surprise to the game, capable of altering the course of play at any moment.
Who is this game recommended for?
It's great for those who enjoy games with a fun theme, a bit of luck, and player interaction, without being overly complicated. If you like lighter, quicker games, you'll enjoy this.
Other Games You'll Like
Based on mechanics and theme