It is one that rewards clever wordplay and clue giving, but you can’t be too clever because your team will lose the game if they can’t decipher your clues. If the White team is correct, nothing happens, whilst if they are wrong they receive an Miscommunication Token (black token). That said, it makes a great gift, and I think it’s a hoot to play, so if you’re looking for another team deduction game that’s a solid fit for a board game night, I’d highly recommend checking out Decrypto!

But every so often, a casual game will rise above your typical Cards Against Humanity and Codenames (yes, I’m looking at you with a side-eye, Codenames) fare. Their teammates would surely guess that they’re referring first to the fourth word, then the third, then the first and, lo – 4, 3, 1? You should try the following : check your connection, disable ad-blocker, clear your browser cache, try in private mode, try from another browser/computer/connection.For me, it will end up in the same group as Tichu, Montage, and Crokinole – a permanent part of my collection, but one that needs the right group to shine. Aside from the initial odd flow of the game, you’ll quickly get past that and into the back and forth that makes Decrypto such a treat to play. Decrypto is a simple code-cracking team game in which each group tries to discern a 3 digit code by interpreting messages posed by teammates while at the same time trying to figure out the opposing team’s codes.

As you can see, Decrpyto has several elements which make the game have twists and turns such as its unique encrypted cards which are only revealed when placed in your panel. Pionki, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, Asmodee, Asmodee China, Bergsala Enigma (Enigma), Fantasmagoria, Galápagos Jogos, Games7Days, Gém Klub Kft. The payoff is no less real, but it’s more cerebral than visceral, whereas Decrypto will usually end with agonized screams or fist-pumping celebrations.

Its lighter than Codenames, but it still requires a level of thoughtfulness that wouldn't pair well with jello shots and jager bombs. But when that group is around, this is one I would always suggest playing (at nearly every possible opportunity). The game comes with plenty of sheets on the pads for players to track information and these are nicely laid out with lots of places to track the clues from the opposing team. In the first rounds, this is tricky as you have limited information as to what their respective keywords are. At the beginning of the round, a player from each team picks a card with the 3 digit code and gives clues to help their teammates figure out the number before the non-proverbial and completely literal sand timer runs out.

And if you are one of those players who was disappointed when you found out you didn't always get a chance to guess the other teams actual words, this is a exactly what you are looking for.If you want to reference Baroque-period architects, fine, but don’t reference what you got your partner for Christmas last year.