To Catch a Spy

(Web published) · Board game · 2020
1–2 Solo 20–30 min
rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy a quick and tense deduction game, whether solo or with a friend, To Catch a Spy is a great pick! It's a clever little game that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Highlights
  • Intriguing and fast-paced
  • Deduction and strategy
  • Great for solo play
  • Variable setup
Keep in mind
  • Limited direct interaction
  • Relies on luck
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Gear up for a high-stakes espionage mission in To Catch a Spy! This 1-2 player game puts you in the shoes of a secret agent tasked with catching an elusive spy before they slip away. Each playthrough offers a fresh challenge with a variable setup: nine location cards form a 3x3 grid, concealing discovery cards beneath them, and files hold their own secrets. Arrow cards dictate the spy's movements, while tools and clues can aid your pursuit.

In the solo mode, you are the agent, racing against the clock. Explore locations, gather clues and items, but beware of bombs that can set you back! Utilize the unique abilities of each location and the intel you collect to unravel the secrets behind the files and, perhaps, plant a tracking device on the spy. Timing is everything, as if the discovery deck runs out, the spy makes their escape. To win, you must possess the right items, have tracked your target, and reach their location before it's too late.

In the two-player mode, one player becomes the agent, and the other the spy. Both players select their actions simultaneously, adding an extra layer of tension and strategy. The agent tries to piece together the puzzle to capture the spy, while the spy aims to evade and escape. With minimal text on the cards, the language barrier is low, making immersion even easier. To Catch a Spy is a quick and engaging game, perfect for those who enjoy mystery, deduction, and a good dose of adrenaline!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–2 players
1 OK
2 OK

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Contests: 54-Card Game Design
Publisher (Web published)
Designer Rachel Bruner
Artist Freepik, Rachel Bruner

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime?
Games of To Catch a Spy typically last between 20 and 30 minutes, making them quite quick.
How many players can play?
The game is designed for 1 or 2 players. It works very well both in solo mode and as a duel between agent and spy.
Is it a complex game to learn?
No, the rules are quite straightforward and the game is easy to learn. The complexity comes from the tactical decisions made during the game.
Do I need to print the game at home?
Yes, To Catch a Spy is a 'Print & Play' game, which means you'll need to print and assemble the components yourself.
Is there a lot of text on the cards?
Fortunately, no! The cards have very little text, making the language barrier minimal and facilitating gameplay.
Who would you recommend this game to?
We recommend it for fans of deduction, mystery, and espionage games, especially if you're looking for something quick to play solo or with a partner.

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