We’ll start the first of (hopefully) many MoB reviews with a game you’ve probably already played—Coup. This classic board game is simple, affordable, and pocketable, ticking many boxes.
Coup – Overview of the Game
If the picture wasn’t clear enough, this review focuses on Coup—a bluffing micro board game published in 2012. It was designed by Rikki Tahta, a well-known name in the board game world.
Coup falls into several game categories, but if we had to describe it simply, it’s a social deduction game that relies heavily on bluffing.
Coup Theme and Aesthetics
In this version of Coup, you are thrown into a dystopian future—not too distant, but just enough. So, you do what you have to… lie, steal, bribe, and manipulate to stay in power and eliminate your opponents.
The character cards are well designed but nothing to write home about. Honestly, they could have featured just about anything, and it wouldn’t make a difference.
How to Play Coup
Coup is played by two to six people. The game includes 15 character cards (three of each character) and 50 coins. There are five different characters: Duke, Assassin, Captain, Ambassador, and Contessa.
At the start, every player gets two random face-down cards and two coins. You also receive a summary card that explains actions, effects, and counteractions.
The game moves clockwise, and each player must choose one action per turn—no passing. After a player chooses an action, others can challenge or counteract it. If they fail or choose not to, the action succeeds.
The rules might sound soooooo complex, but trust me—you’ll get the hang of it after just one game. Tried and tested, even with some heavily intoxicated players.
Is Coup a Complex Board Game?
Nope. Coup is one of the simplest board games to learn and play, making it perfect for families, board game events, or a quick break from more complex games. However, since it involves bluffing and a bit of memory work, it’s recommended for players aged 14+.
The game box includes a small 7-page rulebook with clear, simple instructions covering every scenario. Each player also gets a summary card, making it hard to mess up the rules.
Coup Length and Replayability
A typical game lasts around 15 minutes, depending on the number of players and how often people check their summary cards. That means you can fit multiple rounds in one night, or you can sneak in a quick game anytime.
Beyond the original version, you can buy additional character cards that replace some of the originals. There’s also an expansion, Coup: Reformation, and a spin-off, Coup: Rebellion Guatemala 1954, with its own rules and expansions.
Who Will Enjoy Coup the Most?
Coup is an excellent icebreaker at board game events, as it’s fun, encourages bluffing, and allows for snarky remarks and chit-chat while actively playing.
Although it supports 2-6 players, the best experience is with five or six players. With fewer people, it can feel a bit bland. As with any game, it’s always more fun with friends.
Coup Portability and Setting
Living in Europe’s rainiest city, I’ve learned to appreciate portable board games. The Coup box measures 15 x 11 x 3 cm, meaning it fits in my raincoat pocket.
More importantly, it’s perfect for playing in cafés—it doesn’t take up much space, and you don’t have to clear the entire table. You can play while your pints are still on the table. I checked that on one of the board game events organized by Conor.
Where to Buy Coup?
This is a popular game, available almost anywhere. My version came from AliExpress for 46 NOK (pre-tax). Don’t judge me—I’m gathering materials for an article on the legitimacy and morality of buying knockoff board games. That said, I got a very good-looking knockoff.
If you want to do the right thing, you can buy the official version of Coup from various shops. Prices range from 179 to 279 NOK, depending on the retailer. As of today (March 24, 2025), the best offer is on platekompaniet.no – 179 NOK.
If you spot it in second-hand shops, checking for missing pieces is easy: 15 cards, 50 coins, 6 summary cards—a two-minute check. Second-hand shops and flea markets are one of the best places to buy board games in Bergen.
Coup Pros and Cons
✅ PROS:
- Simple rules
- High replayability
- Affordable
- Pocketable
- Doesn’t take up much space when playing
❌ CONS:
- The theme isn’t deeply tied to gameplay
- Everyone claims to be the Duke in the first round
Is Playing Coup Fun?
In my experience? Absolutely. I love uncomplicated games that create opportunities to get to know your fellow players.
You’ll also start recognizing behavioral patterns if you play with the same people often, which will, in turn, help refine your own strategy.
Summa Summarum
I’d recommend Coup to everyone. It’s a perfect balance of simple rules and high replayability.
It’s one of those staple games you can teach anyone, and as long as you play with a good group, you’ll never get bored of it.