Quick answer
Start by reading the case rules for your chosen scenario, then separate the 240 cards into the four case decks using the dividers. Place the Antares database book and map board within reach, and assign roles before reading the opening briefing.
Why setup matters for Smoke & Mirrors
Detective: Smoke & Mirrors is an expansion for the Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game base game. You need the base game's Antares database, map board, and rulebook to play. The expansion adds 240 new cards across four cases, each more complex than previous Detective cases.
New players often mix up cards from different cases or skip the base game components. Taking a few extra minutes during setup prevents confusion later and helps you focus on solving the mystery.
Step-by-step setup guide
- 1. Prepare the base game components: Set up the Antares database (computer screen) and map board from the base game. Place the base game rulebook nearby. You will not need the base game cards unless a case card instructs you to use them. Common mistake: forgetting the Antares database. Without it, you cannot search for clues.
- 2. Choose your first case: Open the Smoke & Mirrors box. Inside you will find four case envelopes labeled A, B, C, and D. For your first game, start with Case A. It introduces the new mechanics gradually. Each envelope contains its own deck of cards and a case rule sheet. Checkpoint: Read the case rule sheet completely before touching any cards. It tells you which cards to set aside and which to shuffle.
- 3. Separate the case cards: Take the cards from your chosen case envelope. Sort them by card back color if indicated on the rule sheet. Shuffle each deck separately. Do not mix cards from different cases. Common mistake: mixing cards from multiple cases. Each case has its own unique decks. Keep the other envelopes sealed until you finish the current case.
- 4. Assign player roles: Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game is cooperative. Each player can take a role (Lead Investigator, Analyst, Field Agent) or play without roles. Roles affect who reads certain cards. Decide before reading the briefing. Checkpoint: If playing solo, you take all roles. No special setup needed.
- 5. Read the opening briefing: The case rule sheet includes a briefing text. Read it aloud to all players. Then place the starting location card on the map and draw your first lead cards. You are now ready to play. Common mistake: skipping the briefing. The briefing sets the story and gives your first objective. Do not skip it.
What you get in Smoke & Mirrors
-
Detective: Smoke & Mirrors: Smoke and Mirrors features some of the hardest cases created so far, with 4 new cases and 240 new cards. These cases are designed for experienced players, so new players should start with the recommended first case and read all rules carefully.
Detective: Smoke & Mirrors
