The other aspect of editorial oversight is one integrated into the experience as a key component: that of the ‘storyteller’. You could stick with the basic Trouble Brewing script indefinitely, continuing to see players enact fresh clever maneuvers and unexpected gambits. Even better, these scripts will stand up to limitless play. This no facade as the output lives up to the promise, producing intriguing and memorable sessions. These are heavily play-tested ability sets full of subtle interactions and wild strategies to tease out through play. In order to reign in the sheer chaos of a dozen or more players, each with unique colliding abilities, the game includes three “scripts” of pre-selected roles focused on specific themes. One of its strongest elements is in the editorial control exhibited. That stress to the core of the framework is the very intention of Blood on the Clocktower, and it’s designed from the ground up to support this dramatic playstyle. While Werewolf can be played similarly with many custom roles in a kitchen sink style, that’s not the norm and feels as though the game is cracking at its foundation under such circumstances. Some are extremely powerful such as switching sides or even causing the whole game to end if they’re hanged. There are all kinds of roles with unique abilities. You’re still split into two teams – one a minority with a secret villain and their minions, the other a group of good guys intent on rooting them out. First off, every single player receives a special ability. As a system, it leverages a couple of seemingly small tweaks for large gains. There’s something very epochal about this game. I understand where Shut Up & Sit Down found their juice. And despite what anyone may argue in opposition, this really is just Werewolf encased in an ornamental scabbard and mainlining road dope. There are many very solid social deduction games that cost but a pittance, such as Werewords, Quest, and Secret Hitler. It’s crept up to $140 now, in its second printing. It feels less so in 2023, but at the time, $80 for a fancy pants version of Werewolf was certainly ridiculous. The guff was anchored by the fair point that Blood on the Clocktower is outrageously expensive. It was the first time they produced a full review of a crowdfunded game in its non-final state. The disapproval aimed at SUSD’s review centered around the team diverging from their established editorial direction. It didn’t hurt the crowdfunding effort, however, as it found success and resulted in a physically impressive product to pair with its equally impressive cult following. Reviewer troupe Shut Up & Sit Down controversially exalted the game prior to its Kickstarter campaign. There’s been a lot of fuss surrounding Blood on the Clocktower.
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