The Rat Line

The story is real enough to get you killed, and the designer is clear that it is fiction.

Between 2011 and 2015 you are an investigative reporter looking into an alleged secret CIA and MI6 weapons pipeline running from Libya to anti-government forces in Syria. The Rat Line, by Laurie O'Connel for Twelve Pins Press, has you follow the leads and build the story without getting exposed along the way. It is available in print only.

It runs on a standard deck of playing cards using Peach Garden Games' CARTA system, with each draw pushing the investigation forward or closing a door. The designer describes it as pretty punishing, which is fair warning for a game about asking dangerous people awkward questions.

Please note: you will need a standard deck of playing cards.

Perfect for: Anyone who reads the footnotes in a long-form investigation before the article itself.

1 player | Solo playing-card game