Cold War card game uses hidden messages to uncover double agents

Red Scare is a new team-based game centered around the Cold War, espionage, double agents and all that fun stuff. From Pandasaurus, the makers of Machi Koro, the new spy-themed, card/board game will have players take on the role of federal agents working to complete high value objectives while trying to uncover the identity of Russian double agents amongst the ranks…

Described as a social deduction experience, Red Scare is said to be a 2-6 person, team-based card game (although it looks as though as many as 10 players can participate at once). Reports suggest a single run through takes between 30 and 60 minutes per game. While it was specifically designed for small 2-3 person teams, it does sound as though it functions just fine with just 2 or 3 players total.

Participants play the role of FBI agents during the Cold War trying to discern which of their opponents are actually Russian double agents working for the Bureau in disguise. But where it gets interesting is with the decoder glasses which only allow certain players to communicate with each other via hidden messages found on some of the cards.

While details are still somewhat thin at this point, it sounds like there is a point system in place along with “Resources” and a series of goals to complete. There is also something known as Black Ops cards which you can use to “attack” the opponent in some way or other.

The use of pseudo 3D glasses in this way certainly isn’t new, but the implementation is quite interesting here. Even as someone that clearly spends a lot more time playing games on a giant big screen and a PS4 by myself than at a kitchen table with friends, I’m actually quite intrigued. The large player count means it could make for an intersting and fun, yet somewhat intellectual party game. While we will have to wait to get more details and a closer look to know for sure, any board game announcement that has me excited is probably worth some attention, especially for anyone into the Cold War vibe and double agent action.

And the art on display here is pretty amazing as well. Ian O’Toole, of The Gallerist and Vinhos Deluxe Edition fame, has blessed the box and cards on Red Scare with his graphic touch here.

Red Scare is reportedly set to begin shipping in September where all your favorite board games are sold.

Source: TableTopGaming via Kotaku

 

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