In Witch Hunt 1649, players take on the role of neighbors in an East Lothian village. Players are allied in pairs, so gameplay blends competition and co-operation.* As players develop their holdings by buying assets from a shared pool, they must also monitor their welfare and reputation values as these values, along with support from allies, may be the only way they can weather accusations of witchcraft. Let your welfare or reputation drop too low — or get convicted of witchcraft — and it's game over!
The experience is anchored by immersive world-building, drawing players into the social, religious, and political tensions that shaped this volatile period. Fate cards give players scenarios to navigate, while assets can be used defensively or to attack other players. Optional story cards offer additional historical context, and each game will feature at least one witch trial in which accused players try to defend themselves against damning allegations. Gameplay is straightforward while still being moderately strategic. Be prepared for unruly livestock, belligerent neighbors, and tales of Satanic orgies brought to life through colorful quotations from historical records.