Deal with the Devil is a complex euro game that revolves around hidden roles. With four players taking on the roles of the devil, a cultist, and two mortals, the game introduces a captivating dynamic. The devil seeks soul pieces, the cultist aims to dispose of their tainted soul, and the mortals strive to retain their souls unless presented with an enticing offer. Meanwhile, players are challenged to construct buildings for additional powers and actions, upgrade their production capacity, and navigate the perils of brutal inquisitions.
The game follows a unified set of rules and mechanics, yet the gameplay is inherently asymmetric. Each player possesses different goals and negotiates deals based on their respective roles. Spanning five rounds, Deal with the Devil encompasses deal-making and strategic planning of actions and executing them. Certain rounds incorporate additional phases such as inquisitions and witch hunts, where players attempt to avoid paying penalties to the inquisitors and unveil the identities of the devil and the cultist. Deal with the Devil encourages players to embrace the use of loans as a strategic tool for constructing a robust engine. Mastering the art of deal-making and the timing of taking and repaying loans may require multiple playthroughs, as players learn to navigate the delicate balance between temptation and competitiveness.

This game will really get your brain working and make you think hard about every decision you make. If you’re into intense and heavy games, Deal with the Devil is definitely going to grab your attention. It’s also important to note that the game can be unforgiving in certain aspects. Once actions are planned, they must be carried out, otherwise, there will be consequences. This may lead to analysis paralysis for those prone to overthinking. Central to gameplay is the construction and activation of buildings, which other than new abilities yield points and tags used for achieving achievements. With 80 building cards available, players can discover powerful combos, adding excitement to the process of finding the optimal combination of buildings and utilizing resources for construction. This aspect of the game is particularly enjoyable.

In terms of component quality and artwork, Deal with the Devil truly shines. The game board, cards, and player walls feature stunning illustrations, enhancing the overall visual appeal. The inclusion of an excellent player aid ensures that all necessary information is readily accessible. Behind the player walls, reminders of various aspects of the game further streamline gameplay, reducing the need to frequently consult the rulebook. The board design is innovative, divided into four sections representing each player, with a production wheel at its center showcasing production and each round’s phases. Additionally, the inclusion of chests for storing and trading soul pieces, coins, and resources is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. Overall, the component design is extraordinary.


Deal with the Devil also requires an accompanying app that serves a specific function: managing chests during deal-making without revealing hidden roles. Each chest contains a QR code at the bottom, and the app utilizes the front camera of a device to scan these codes, informing players who receives each chest during certain phases of the game. Although the app’s role is minimal, it is required to play the game.


As previously mentioned, Deal with the Devil is a complex game that demands multiple plays to truly grasp its intricacies, especially when it comes to navigating deal-making and determining which offers to accept or decline. It’s worth noting that the game specifically requires a group of exactly four players, which means you’ll need a dedicated and committed gaming group to fully enjoy the game’s potential. Considering the relatively long playtime, these factors can pose significant barriers for many potential players.

Overall, Deal with the Devil is a game that can generate divided opinions among gamers. If you appreciate the complexity and depth of heavier euro games and have a dedicated group of four players, you will likely find this game highly enjoyable. Its engaging gameplay, stunning artwork, and exceptional component design and quality contribute to an outstanding gaming experience. However, if you do not have a consistent group of four or prefer less complex games, Deal with the Devil may not be the right choice for you.
Disclosure: We received a review copy of this game. Also, there may be an affiliate link in the links included at the end of this article.
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