Die Mauer

About this board game

Die Mauer is a bluffing and mind-reading game for 3–6 players, with play taking about 30 minutes. Each player has a matching set of Walls, a Tower, and a Gate, and aims to clear their hand before the others do.

On each turn, one player becomes the Master Builder. Everyone secretly chooses one piece, or an empty fist, and reveals their choice at the same time. If the Master Builder’s choice is unique, that piece is added to the wall. However, if another player chose the exact same piece, that player gets to build instead.

The building restrictions keep every choice meaningful. Walls can be placed next to anything, while Towers and Gates may only be placed next to Walls. Players must judge what the Master Builder and their opponents are likely to select, then decide whether to commit a useful piece or keep their options hidden.

• Walls: Can go next to any piece.
• Towers and Gates: May only sit next to Walls.
• Empty fists: Create special passing and selection rules.

If the Master Builder is the only player showing an empty fist, they may pick a piece from their hand. If exactly one other player also chose an empty fist, that player secretly passes a piece to the Master Builder. If more than one empty fist matches the Master Builder’s choice, nobody builds.

The role passes to the next player until someone empties their hand. Anyone still holding pieces loses points: Towers cost 15 points, Gates cost 10, and Walls cost 1–6 points. Play a few rounds and total the scores. With quick turns, appealing pieces, and plenty of room for bluffing, Die Mauer is well suited to a pub or bar game night.