Chronicles of Crime

2018

Unleash your detective skills with the Chronicles of Crime board game. Utilizing an innovative blend of app, VR, and traditional board game elements, solve intriguing crime stories in an immersive, interactive experience.

90
minutes

1 - 4
player(s)

12+

Medium

About the game

‘Chronicles of Crime’ is an immersive board game that plunges players into the heart of captivating mysteries. The game’s world is rich and diverse, taking you through different time periods and various locations, all while challenging you with intricate criminal investigations.

The game’s theme is centered around criminal investigation. As players, you will take on the roles of detectives working together to solve a crime. The setting varies with each scenario, ranging from a quiet suburb to a bustling city, and even whisking you away to historical times in the expansions. This dynamic setting keeps the game fresh and interesting, providing a new backdrop for each mystery you are tasked with solving.

Game components Unboxing the fun!

Chronicles of Crime is a cooperative game of crime investigation where players take the role of detectives working together to solve a mystery. The game components each play a crucial role in influencing the gameplay. Here are the main components of the game:

1. Game Board:

The game board is a map of the city where the crime took place. This is where players will move their character tokens to investigate different locations, gather clues, and interact with suspects and witnesses. Each location on the board has a unique QR code that can be scanned using the game’s app to reveal more information.

2. Character Tokens:

These tokens represent the players in the game. They are used to move around the game board and interact with the different elements of the game. Each character token also has a unique QR code which can be scanned for more information about the character.

3. Evidence Category Cards:

These cards represent different categories of evidence, such as “Weapon”, “Clue”, “Document”, etc. When players discover a piece of evidence during their investigation, they will place it under the corresponding category card. Each evidence category card has a unique QR code which can be scanned for more information.

4. Vision Cards:

Vision cards are used to represent the psychic visions that players can experience during the game. These cards have abstract images that can help players piece together the mystery. Each vision card has a unique QR code which can be scanned for more information.

5. Location Cards:

These cards represent different locations in the city. When players decide to investigate a particular location, they will place the corresponding location card on the game board. Each location card has a unique QR code that can be scanned for more information.

6. Character Cards:

Character cards represent the different characters that players can interact with during the game. These characters can be suspects, witnesses, or even victims. Each character card has a unique QR code that can be scanned for more information.

7. Forensic Contacts Cards:

These cards represent the player’s contacts in various fields of forensic science. Players can consult these contacts for expert advice on the clues they’ve gathered. Each contact card has a unique QR code that can be scanned for more information.

8. Special Item Cards:

These cards represent special items that players can find during their investigation. These items can be used to unlock new areas, solve puzzles, or provide crucial clues. Each special item card has a unique QR code that can be scanned for more information.

Game setup Lay it out, line it up, let’s go

Chronicles of Crime is a cooperative game of crime investigation that blends the elements of VR experiences and board gaming. With the same physical components (board, locations, characters, and items), players will be able to play plenty of different scenarios and solve as many different crime stories. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up the game:

Step 1: Player Roles

Each player takes on the role of a detective working to solve a crime. There are no specific roles to assign, as the players will need to work together, sharing their findings and theories to successfully solve the case.

Step 2: Board Placement

Place the main game board in the center of the table. This will serve as your command center throughout the game, where you will place location cards, special item cards, and character cards as you encounter them.

Step 3: Preparing the Deck

Separate the location, character, and special item cards into separate piles on the table. Keep these piles within reach of all players, as you will need to draw from them as the game progresses.

Step 4: Preparing the Scenario

Choose the scenario you wish to play and find the corresponding card in the deck. Place this card on the main board. The scenario card will provide you with the initial setup instructions, including which location and character cards to place on the board.

Step 5: Initial Resources

Gather the evidence category cards and place them next to the board. These include categories such as ‘Substance’, ‘Object’, ‘Document’, ‘Body’, etc. These will be used to categorize any evidence you find during your investigation.

Step 6: Random Elements

The randomness in Chronicles of Crime comes from the scenario itself. Each one has a different setup, with different characters, locations, and items. As such, the game will play out differently each time, even if you’re playing the same scenario. This is because the choices you make, the places you decide to visit, and the order in which you choose to question suspects will all affect the outcome of the game.

Step 7: Starting the Game

Once the setup is complete, you’re ready to start the game. The scenario card will tell you how to begin, providing you with an initial location and a brief summary of the crime you’re trying to solve. From there, it’s up to you and your fellow detectives to gather clues, question suspects, and ultimately solve the crime.

Game flow Round and round we go

Chronicles of Crime is a cooperative game of crime investigation, blending a board game, an app, and a touch of Virtual Reality. The game is structured in a non-linear fashion, meaning there isn’t a set number of rounds or phases. Rather, players spend time units to perform actions until the crime is solved, or until they decide to conclude the investigation.

Game Setup:

Choose a scenario: Players begin by choosing a scenario in the app and placing the corresponding Location card on the table.
Prepare the deck: As instructed by the app, players organize the Character, Item, and Special Item cards into their respective decks.
Arrange the components: Players place the Home base card, Evidence Category cards, and Forensic Contacts cards on the table within easy reach of all players.

Gameplay:

Performing Actions: Players, as a group, decide which actions to take. The actions can be visiting a Location, meeting a Character, searching for Clues, or calling a Forensic Contact. Each action costs time units.
Visiting a Location: Players can visit different locations by scanning the QR code on the Location card. New Characters may appear when visiting a location, and players can place the corresponding Character cards at that location.
Meeting a Character: By scanning the Character’s QR code, players can talk to them about other Characters, Items, or Clues. This action costs time units and can yield important information.
Searching for Clues: Players can perform a VR crime scene investigation by choosing the “Search for Clues” option in the app. One player describes the scene while others look for corresponding Item cards in the deck.
Calling a Forensic Contact: Players can call their Forensic Contacts to gain information about specific Items or Clues. Each contact specializes in a different field, so choosing the right one is crucial.

Concluding the Investigation:

When players believe they have gathered enough evidence to solve the crime, they can conclude the investigation in the app. The app will ask a series of questions, and players must select the correct Characters, Items, or Clues to answer.

Scoring:

The app calculates the final score based on the correctness of the answers, the number of questions answered, and the time spent on the investigation. The higher the score, the better the performance.

Note: In Chronicles of Crime, cooperation and good communication between players are key to solving the crime. It’s not a typical game with rounds or phases; instead, it’s an immersive, narrative-driven experience where every decision can lead you closer to the answer or send you down a misleading path.

Players'turn One turn to rule them all

The game of ‘Chronicles of Crime’ is a cooperative game of crime investigation where players work as a team to solve different crimes. During a player’s turn in ‘Chronicles of Crime’, a number of different actions can be taken. These actions can greatly influence the course of the game and the eventual outcome of the investigation.

1. Visiting a Location:

One of the possible actions during a player’s turn is visiting a location. To do this, the player simply tells the rest of the team that they want to visit a particular location and scans its QR code. Visiting different locations can provide valuable clues and allow players to interrogate suspects or witnesses.

2. Searching for Clues:

When at a location, a player can choose to search for clues. This is done by scanning the location’s QR code and then describing the scene to the other players. The other players then look for matching clues amongst the physical evidence cards.

3. Interrogating a Person:

Another possible action is interrogating a person. This can be done by scanning the person’s QR code. Players can then ask the person about different clues or other people by scanning their respective QR codes.

4. Calling an Expert:

Players also have the option of calling an expert for help. This is done by scanning the expert’s QR code. The expert can provide insight into different clues and help guide the investigation.

5. Reviewing the Case:

Finally, a player can choose to review the case. This involves going through all of the information that the team has gathered so far and discussing what they think has happened and what they should do next.

Each of these actions requires careful strategic decision-making. For example, choosing which location to visit next can be a crucial decision as it may determine which clues and suspects are discovered. Similarly, deciding when to call an expert can be a key strategic choice as the expert’s advice can significantly affect the direction of the investigation.

In conclusion, a turn in ‘Chronicles of Crime’ involves a range of possible actions, each offering different strategic choices and potential impacts on the game. By carefully considering these choices, players can work together to solve the crime and win the game.

End of the game All good games must come to an end

Chronicles of Crime is a cooperative board game, where players work together to solve different crimes. The game ends once the players decide they have gathered enough evidence to answer the questions they’re asked at the end of each scenario. This decision is entirely up to the players, but they must be careful: the more time they spend investigating, the less their final score may be.

Victory Conditions:

Successfully Solving the Crime: The main victory condition in Chronicles of Crime is successfully solving the crime. To do this, players must correctly answer a series of questions at the end of the scenario. The questions are about the crime’s circumstances and the individuals involved. The more accurate the answers, the higher the score. The game does not ‘end’ if the players fail to solve the crime, but their final score will reflect their performance.
Time Management: Time is also a significant factor in Chronicles of Crime. Every action in the game takes time, and the more time players spend on the investigation, the lower their final score may be. Therefore, efficient time management is essential for victory.

Actions Before Final Scoring:

Answering Questions: The game concludes with a series of questions about the crime. Players must ensure that they’ve gathered enough evidence to answer these questions confidently and correctly.
Time Calculation: Players must calculate the total time they spent during the investigation. This includes time spent traveling, questioning suspects, and scanning QR codes. This total time will impact the final score.
Score Evaluation: After answering the questions and calculating the time spent, players must evaluate their score. The score is determined by the correct answers to the questions and the time spent on the investigation. A higher score indicates a more successful investigation.

In conclusion, the end of a game of Chronicles of Crime is not strictly defined, as players can decide when they have gathered enough evidence. However, players should be aware that time management is key to achieving a high score. The game ends with a series of questions, and the players’ responses, along with the time spent on the investigation, determine the final score.

Scoring Did you outsmart your rivals?

The scoring system in ‘Chronicles of Crime’ is an essential part of the game that determines who wins. It’s a bit complex as it considers various factors throughout the game. Below you will find a detailed description of the scoring system, including how points are awarded and the tie-breaking rules.

Scoring Points

In ‘Chronicles of Crime’, the scoring system is based primarily on how well players solve the crime. The score is calculated at the end of the game, after the players have answered the questions about the crime.

Correct Answers: For each correct answer to the questions, players receive points. The total points possible for correct answers vary depending on the complexity of the case.
Time: Players lose points for each in-game hour that passes while they are investigating. The longer it takes to solve the crime, the more points are deducted.
Hint Cards: Players also lose points if they use any hint cards during the game. Each hint card used results in a deduction of points.
Unvisited Locations: Bonus points are awarded for each location that players did not need to visit during their investigation. This rewards efficiency in solving the crime.

Tie-Breaking Rules

In the event that two or more players end up with the same score, the tie-breaking rules are used to determine the winner. The tie-breaking rules are as follows:

The player who used the least amount of hint cards is the winner.
If the tie still persists, the player who took the least in-game time to solve the crime is the winner.
If there is still a tie, the player who visited the least number of locations is the winner.
If none of the above breaks the tie, the game ends in a draw.

Understanding the scoring system and tie-breaking rules can greatly enhance the strategic depth of ‘Chronicles of Crime’. Remember, the goal is not just to solve the crime, but to do so as efficiently as possible!

Particular Cases and Exceptions Wait… is that legal?

The game ‘Chronicles of Crime’ is a cooperative game of crime investigation. While the rules are generally straightforward, there are some rare or special rules, exceptions, and clarifications that players should be aware of:

Scanning: In ‘Chronicles of Crime’, the scanning system is crucial. However, it’s worth noting that players can only scan QR codes that make sense in the context of the game. For instance, you can’t scan the QR code of a doctor if you are not in the same location as the doctor.
Special Abilities: Some characters have special abilities that can be used once per game. These abilities are indicated by a star symbol next to the character’s name. To use a special ability, the character’s QR code must be scanned.
Travel: Players can travel to different locations by scanning the location’s QR code. However, they can’t travel to a new location if they haven’t learned about it in the game yet.
Time: Time is a critical factor in ‘Chronicles of Crime’. Each action takes time, and the game ends when the time runs out. Players should be aware of the time they have left and plan their moves accordingly.
Clue cards: Clue cards are drawn when players learn about a new clue. However, players should not draw a clue card if the clue is physical evidence that can be analyzed by the forensic contact.
End of the Game: The game ends when players choose to report their findings to the chief or when the time runs out. The game can also end prematurely if players make certain choices that lead to a bad ending.

These special rules and exceptions add depth and complexity to ‘Chronicles of Crime’, making it a unique and exciting board game.

Tips and tricks Play smarter, not harder!

The board game Chronicles of Crime is an immersive, cooperative game of crime investigation. Here are some strategies, tips, common mistakes to avoid, and ways to optimize gameplay:

Advanced Strategies:

Teamwork: Chronicles of Crime is a cooperative game, therefore, working as a team is crucial. Discuss your findings with your teammates, share your theories, and make collective decisions.
Time Management: Keep track of the time. Visiting locations and interrogating suspects takes time in the game. Use your time wisely to gather as much information as possible.
Visual Memory: Use your visual memory to your advantage. Remembering details from the crime scene can be helpful in solving the case.

Beginner Tips:

Start with the Tutorial: The game comes with a tutorial case. Start with this to understand the game mechanics before diving into the actual cases.
Take Notes: Note down important information, clues, and your own theories. This will be useful in the later stages of the game.
Use the Game Components: Make good use of the game components like the Evidence Board and Character Cards. They are there to help you organize your information.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Not Using the Companion App: The game requires the use of a companion app. Forgetting to use the app or not using it effectively will hamper your gameplay.
Rushing: Don’t rush through the game. Take your time to understand the clues, interrogate the suspects, and solve the case.
Ignoring Clues: Don’t ignore any clue, however insignificant it may seem. Every piece of information can be crucial in solving the case.

Ways to Optimize Gameplay:

Use All Available Resources: The game includes various resources like the VR glasses for crime scene investigation. Use all of them to your advantage.
Regular Breaks: Take regular breaks during gameplay. This will help you to refresh your mind and focus better on the game.
Interact with Characters: Interact with as many characters as possible. You never know who might provide the vital clue to solve the case.