Detective Stories: History Edition – Kaifeng 982 (2021)

About this game

Betrayal, Insurgents, and a looming war… The discovery of an thousand year old ancient Chinese artifact shines new light on the assassination of Chancellor Lài – an event that changed the fate of the Xi Xia Empire forever. Professor Dan Silvers starts the search for the truth which has been buried since 982 AD. But alone in a foreig country he hits the wall - can you help his investigation from afar? The first in a series of detective games based on historical events which not only history buffs will love. The game is designed as a historical criminal case and requires investigations similar to those carried out by archaeologists in real life. Use the collected evidence and make your own investigation to bring the truth to light. —description from the publisher

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 5. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 2.8/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 14 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.