The Emerald Flame (2021)

About this game

The Emerald Flame is a narrative tabletop puzzle game told in three parts. Commissioned by an organization shrouded in mystery, players take the role of a historical expert embarking on a quest to piece together the recipe for a fabled elixir by investigating maps, drawings, alchemical diagrams, and mysterious artifacts. Combining history, hand-drawn illustration, vibrant characters, and original puzzles, The Emerald Flame will challenge and engage players of all experience levels. Each installment takes approximately 1.5-3 hours to complete, for a recommended group size of 1-4 people. From the creator of the “insidiously clever” puzzle adventure The Tale of Ord, The Emerald Flame is a new epic for fans of escape rooms, game nights, and “not just games but…experiences.” —description from the designer

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 4. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 3.5/5 this is a heavy game — read the rulebook before people arrive.
• Age. The publisher suggests 14 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.