Death on the Gambia September 2007

by Mark Doney
(Oxford, UK)

This was the fourth time that I've hosted a Freeform Games murder mystery - but my first playing Death on the Gambia. (The other three times I was hosting Curse of the Pharaohs and really wanted something different .)

Overall this game is ideal for new people who are not use to playing these sort of games, each person had a good character sheet that explained why they were here (aboard a boat going down the River Gambia in 1939) and what they had to do.

Unlike Curse of the Pharaoh, there was no magic involved (which was a bonus as many people didn't really get that aspect).

As the Host, I found it hectic at times - especially with the numerous telegrams being sent from nearly everyone. (I could have used a bit more guidance - but I used my imagination and it wasn't a problem.)

In the end had a lot more fun playing Death on the Gambia than Curse of the Pharaoh as the characters were more easily managed and their motives were much clearer. I am hoping to re-host this game again in a few months time as people enjoyed it that much.

One word of advice - if you are the host, make sure you plan this well before the day.

Click here to learn more about Death on the Gambia