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
Where to Buy
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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.