Usual Crapules

Sylex · Board game · 2026
3–5 25–30 min
5.9 rating Ludopedia
5.9 rating BGG
5.9 rating Ludopedia
5.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for groups that love chaos and light betrayal; the 'blame-shifting' dynamic is pure fun.

Highlights
  • Treacherous and funny interactions
  • Fast-paced and dynamic games
  • Asymmetrical powers add variety
  • Easy to learn and teach
Keep in mind
  • Heavily dependent on group interaction
  • Might be frustrating for those who hate 'Take That'
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Picture this: you and your gang planned the perfect heist, but everything went south. Now, you're all in the defendant's dock, and the only way out is to convince the judge that everyone else is far worse than you. In Usual Crapules, the goal is simple yet treacherous: secure the shortest possible sentence. After all, whoever leaves prison first is the one who gets to dig up the loot alone.

The gameplay is frantic and full of malice. Each turn, you decide how to manipulate the court. Want to shift the blame to a teammate? Use evidence cards to incriminate them. Want to ensure their sentence is heavy? Place a strict juror in the mix. If the heat gets too high for you, you can call a lawyer to plead innocence or launch a timely objection to flip the script and turn the tables completely.

What makes the experience truly engaging are the plot twists. The game isn't just about playing cards; it's about creating combos and reacting to opponents' attacks with quick counter-moves. Furthermore, each scoundrel possesses asymmetrical talents, meaning your strategy shifts depending on which character you're controlling. On top of that, Balance tokens introduce unique and unpredictable effects to every session. The final verdict is calculated by summing up the prison years accumulated through evidence and jurors. It's a fast-paced, tense, and above all, hilarious game, perfect for those who love betraying their friends (in a friendly way, of course) and laughing at others' misfortune while trying to escape prison.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details
Publisher Sylex
Designer Christophe Lauras, Franz Couderc
Artist Yvan Tesi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game complex to learn?
Not at all! The rules are simple and the card text is minimal and easy to memorize, making it ideal for those who don't want to read massive manuals.
How long does a game last?
It's quite quick, usually between 25 and 30 minutes, making it a great filler between larger games.
How many people can play?
The game shines with 3 to 5 players. Fewer than that and you lose the chaos; more than that and it might drag on.
Is it a strategic or more casual game?
It has strategic layers in combos and powers, but the tone is entirely casual and party-like. The focus is on fun and interaction.
Who do you recommend this game for?
For those who enjoy bluffing games, love messing with their friends using effect cards, and are looking for something light to liven up the night.