# The Message

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2009
- **BGG Rating**: 7.0
- **BGG Rank**: #5562
- **Players**: 3-9 (Best with: 7)
- **Duration**: 30-60 min
- **Weight**: 2.39 / 5
- **Designers**: (Uncredited)
- **Publishers**: Arclight Games, Qian Qi Dong Man, Swan Panasia Co., Ltd.
- **Categories**: Bluffing, Card Game, Deduction, Spies / Secret Agents
- **Mechanics**: Hand Management, Team-Based Game, Variable Player Powers

## Verdict
Fans of betrayal and group deduction games will have a blast. The game shines in chaotic interaction and unpredictable twists.Easy-to-learn mechanicsHigh replayabilityGreat for large groupsCan be too chaotic for someLong games with 9 playersRECOMMENDED

## Description
In *The Message*, you dive into a card game full of intrigue and secret identities. Inspired by the Chinese movie of the same name, the game pits players into three factions: Underground, Army, or Passersby. Each has unique abilities and the goal is to collect the right color of information while avoiding the false ones (the dreaded black cards). The game mixes bluffing, deduction, and hand management in dynamic rounds where each card played can turn the tide. You can use cards to pass information or activate special functions, like blocking a move or burning a black card. But beware: three black cards and you're out! With mechanics reminiscent of *Shadow Hunters* and *Coach Ride to Devil's Castle*, *The Message* is perfect for groups who enjoy betrayal and team strategy games. Each match changes the dynamic entirely, ensuring high replayability.

## FAQ
### How many players do you recommend?
5-7 players is ideal. With 3 it's more tactical, with 9 it's fun chaos.

### What's the minimum age?
12 years old, due to the need for strategy and bluffing. But teens love it!

### Is there language dependency?
No, cards use icons and colors. Only the manual needs translation.

### How long does a game last?
30 to 60 minutes, depending on player count and betrayals.

### Does it need a moderator like Werewolf?
Nope! The game is self-sufficient, everyone plays actively.