Game On! Fictions Memoirs of a Gangster Game Review

Cards, Dice & Cardboard. What is NOT to like!?

Publisher: Ludonova

Year Published: 2023

BGG Page: Fictions

Last Updated: June 29th, 2024

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Game Overview

Fictions Memoirs of a Gangster is a cooperative one to four player game set in the pulp gangster world. The game utilizes a slick combination of both cards and dice to simulate playing various scenarios as a mafia boss. You recruit henchmen, confront police, rob banks and ultimately run for Mayor. The game features both one-shot playable scenarios and a campaign version which the game cites as the regular game utilizing three total missions.

Artwork is simply amazing in this game. The theme has been beautifully done. And the price point ~$50-60USD is very competitive for the content you are getting here folks! My hunch is many in the US have not played this game, give it a try - you will be glad you did! This is a hidden gem!

Adaptability

The game is split across two rule sets: core game and scenarios. While I like and appreciate the replay factor of the different scenarios, having them necessitate different and unique rules is not ideal. Complexity is relatively low, especially once you play a single game session or two. Expect an hour or two for initial setup and learning the core rules. From there you pick up the remaining details in the next few hours of play.

Engagement

Engagement is will done in this game. The mechanics weave a well-done gangster narrative. The game keeps you coming back for more! You are building up a deck of henchmen progressively and the while striving to eliminate multiple challenges on the board.

Human Connection

This is a cooperative one to four player game, player interaction is well done. You are all together, attempting a collection of “challenges” using your best henchmen. “You take out the alarm and I’ll crack open the safe”, players tackle the scenarios together.

Immersive Experience

My favorite category for this game. Artwork, theme and replay are all super high value and quality in the game. Component quality is the only aspect that keeps me from giving the game a full-blown 10. The cards are well done and nice, however the tokens are OK.

What I Like

  • Artwork!

  • Compact, Travel-Friendly Packaging!

  • Replay!

  • Slick Combination of Dice & Card/Deck Building Mechanics

  • Strong Value to Price Ratio -Get alot of bang for your buck!

  • Interesting Design of One-Shot & Campaign Scenarios

  • Minimal Setup Time Once You Know How to Play Given Scenario

What I Disliked

  • Each Scenario is Learning a New (Partial) Game

  • Component Quality - Cards are Well Done. Other Components are OK at best.

Who Should Buy

This game is an excellent buy for the solo gamer as well as for seasoned gamers looking for a quick(er) game night play session. The game is moderately complex but once learned it’s a swift play. Gamers that enjoy the mafia and pulp fiction scene will also enjoy this title.

Strategy

  • Red Dice - You can optionally use the red dice, from my experience recommend you do so sparingly!

Ratings

  • Adaptability: 7.5

    • Includes Complexity, Difficulty & Learning

  • Engagement: 8

    • Includes Mechanics, Strategy & Theme

  • Human Connection: 8

    • Includes Family Fun, Player Interaction & Theme

  • Immersive Experience: 9.5

    • Includes Artwork, Components, Replayability & Theme

  • Overall Rating: 8.25 out of 10

For a review of our rating system please see here

Closing Thoughts

I really enjoyed this game! I paid ~$60 USD at retail for this game. You are getting a lot of value for $60 here. Its one of the better games I have played in terms of combining dice and cards to support a narrative so well.

Until Next Time, Enjoy the Tabletop!!

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