Unauthorized

Chara Games · Board game · 2017
6–12 20–40 min Weight 2.0/5
rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

For those who enjoy a different social deduction game with a strong theme and shifting loyalties, "Unauthorized" is a great pick!

Highlights
  • Unique and immersive theme
  • Loyalty changes mid-game
  • Doesn't require lying to play
  • Great for large groups
Keep in mind
  • Rules can be confusing initially
  • Theme might be heavy for some
  • Relies on player interaction
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Check out "Unauthorized"! Imagine a social deduction game with a heavy theme: an underground church living under the thumb of an oppressive government. The twist here is that players' loyalty isn't fixed; it can change during the game! Each player receives a secret role card that grants a special ability, you get it? These abilities are key to influencing others and trying to sway the majority to your side, whether supporting the State or the Church. The cool thing is you don't have to lie to play, which breaks the mold of other games in this genre. The cards in your hand dictate your loyalty, and when they change, your position might shift too. To win, the Church players need more than half the players on their side and must ensure no one is imprisoned. The State players want the opposite. "Unauthorized" captures the real tension of living in a resistance movement, without focusing on theology, but rather on the adrenaline and constant danger. It's a game for those who enjoy thinking, bluffing (even when not required!), and feeling the pressure of a persecution scenario. With 6 to 12 players and quick games around 30 minutes, it's perfect for livening up a larger group that enjoys a challenge of wits and social strategy.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

6–12 players
6 OK
7 OK
8 OK
9 OK
10 OK
11 OK
12 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Publisher Chara Games
Designer Patrick Lysaght
Artist Scott Nicely

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play "Unauthorized"?
The game is designed for 6 to 12 players. The more people, the more chaotic and fun it gets!
How long does a game take?
A game of "Unauthorized" usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes, so you can play several rounds in one evening.
Is the game difficult to learn?
Its complexity is rated 2 out of 5, indicating low to moderate complexity. The basic rules are straightforward, but the strategy can be deeper.
Do I need to lie to play well?
No! One of the cool things about "Unauthorized" is that you can play well without needing to lie, which is a differentiator in social deduction games.
What is the objective of the game?
The objective is to influence the majority of players to join your side (State or Church) and, for the Church, to ensure no one is imprisoned.
Is the theme too heavy?
The game addresses the tension of living in a resistance under persecution, but focuses more on mechanics and interaction than on theological details or explicit violence.
Is it suitable for newcomers to deduction games?
Yes! Because it doesn't require lying and has a faster pace, it can be a good entry point for those wanting to try the genre.

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