Illuminati
- Players
- 2-6
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 180 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.7 / 5
- Year
- 1987
About the game
Illuminati is Steve Jackson's classic satirical game of secret societies vying for world domination. Two to six players each control a shadowy organization racing to infiltrate and control special interest groups across the globe, from the media to street gangs. Wildly humorous card text and unpredictable alliances make every session a chaotic ride through conspiracy-theory absurdity. This edition updates the venerable original with reworked graphics and additional cards.
Hobbli's Notes
We've always loved Illuminati for its tongue-in-cheek humor and the way negotiation and betrayal spice up an otherwise straightforward area-control structure. It's a cult classic that rewards a group willing to embrace chaos and trash talk. Games can run long, and the mechanics show their age compared to modern designs, but the theme and humor keep it beloved. A must for fans of political satire and negotiation games.
What we like
- Iconic satirical humor and theme.
- High player interaction and negotiation.
- Variable player powers keep every faction distinct.
- Long-standing classic with a dedicated following.
Keep in mind
- Long playtime can drag at 180 minutes.
- Rules and balance feel dated compared to modern designs.
- Can create runaway leader problems.
Who it's for
Best for ages 12+ groups of 4-6 who enjoy negotiation, humor, and chaotic political games; not ideal for players who dislike direct conflict.
