Hostage Negotiator
- Players
- 1
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 1 player
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 30 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 15+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.1 / 5
- Year
- 2015
About the game
Hostage Negotiator casts you as a lone negotiator racing to secure the release of hostages from a dangerous captor. Each turn represents a tense conversation where you play cards and roll dice to raise conversation points, lower the threat level, and free hostages one by one. Its distinctive hand-building system puts purchased cards directly into your hand for the next turn, avoiding the delay typical of deck-building games. With multiple viable paths to victory, every session poses fresh tactical choices under mounting pressure.
Hobbli's Notes
A tense, atmospheric solo experience that packs real decision-making into a short playtime. The hand-building system is a smart twist that keeps momentum high throughout.
What we like
- Strong solo-focused design with real tension.
- Innovative hand-building mechanism keeps pace brisk.
- Multiple viable strategies toward victory.
- Thematically rich negotiation narrative.
Keep in mind
- Solo-only design limits appeal for group game nights.
- Dice rolling can swing outcomes significantly.
- Expansions are needed for full scenario variety.
Who it's for
Great for solo gamers aged 14+ who enjoy tense, thematic card and dice games.
