We organize a variety of games during our public meetups and private events. One of the most popular games we play is Werewolf. In this game, players are assigned different roles, including Werewolves, Villagers, a Seer, a Doctor, and a Moderator. We also offer additional roles like the Alpha Werewolf, Witch, Village Drunk, and a few Wild Cards to add extra depth and excitement. Below is a breakdown of each role and their functions within the game.
The Moderator
The success of the game largely depends on the Moderator. This role is critical, as the Moderator is the only player who knows the identity of each participant. They guide the players through the different phases of the game: day, night, and the subsequent morning. To keep the game moving, some Moderators set a 5-minute time limit during the day for players to decide who they suspect and want to eliminate. The Moderator is also responsible for calling a vote when a nomination for elimination is made. Given the complexity, especially with a large group, the Moderator may find it helpful to use a pen and paper to keep track of each role and the eliminations.
The Villagers
Villagers are the most common role in the game. Their main objective is to identify the Werewolves hidden among them. Villagers must observe their fellow players closely, looking for any suspicious behavior or inconsistencies. Is someone talking too much? They might be a Werewolf. Is someone too quiet? That could also be a sign. The key is to read the group dynamics and act accordingly.
The Werewolves
In most setups, the number of Werewolves is usually half that of the Villagers. For example, in a game of 6 players, there would be 2 Werewolves. Their goal is to secretly choose a Villager to eliminate each night while blending in with the Villagers during the day to avoid detection. The Werewolves win when their numbers equal the Villagers, or when all the Villagers have been eliminated. This role is particularly challenging as it requires players to maintain a convincing deception throughout the game.
The Seer
The Seer is a special Villager with the ability to identify Werewolves. During the night phase, the Seer is allowed to ask the Moderator about the identity of any player. The Moderator will confirm whether the chosen player is a Werewolf or not. The Seer then faces the strategic decision of whether to reveal their knowledge or keep it hidden, using it strategically to influence the game.
The Doctor
Another crucial Villager role, the Doctor, has the power to save a player, including themselves, from elimination. During the night, the Doctor is awakened by the Moderator and can choose one player to heal. If the Werewolves target the healed player, that player survives the night. The Doctor must decide whether to protect themselves or attempt to save another Villager, depending on their strategy.
Special Roles & Wild Cards
Our game set includes Wild Cards that can be used to introduce new roles or replace missing ones. Here are some examples of special roles:
The Village Drunk
The Village Drunk operates like a regular Villager but with an added challenge: they can only communicate using gestures or noises. Speaking during the day is forbidden, and if they do speak, they are automatically eliminated that night. This role can be a strategic cover for Werewolves who might pretend to be the Drunk.
The Witch
The Witch is another Villager role with unique abilities. The Witch possesses one potion to save a player and one poison to eliminate a player. The Witch may use these abilities at any point during the game. To maintain anonymity, the Moderator will ask the Witch each night if they want to use their potion or poison. The Witch must carefully decide when to use their powers, as they can only be used once per game.
The Alpha Werewolf
The Alpha Werewolf has the same objectives as regular Werewolves but with an additional challenge: they must say the word "Werewolf" at least once during the day. This adds a layer of complexity as all players will be cautious to avoid saying the word themselves, while trying to identify the Alpha. If the Alpha Werewolf fails to say "Werewolf" during the day, they are automatically eliminated the following night.