Objective
The goal of 3 Secrets is for the team to uncover hidden secrets behind a crime story. One player takes on the role of "Detective" and tries to solve a case by asking the other players, who act as "Informants." The team wins if they can solve all three secrets of the case in time.
Game Components
- 50 Case Cards each containing three secrets to uncover.
- Hourglass (to keep time, usually around 15 minutes)
- Rulebook
Setup
- Decide who will be the Detective first. This role can switch after each case.
- The Detective draws a Case Card from the deck that the other players should not see.
- The hourglass is set up to measure time.
Gameplay
- The Detective provides the Informants with the general framework of the case as printed on the card, without revealing the secrets.
- Informants ask Yes/No questions to the Detective to gather clues about the secrets.
- The Detective can specify whether a hint is about a "Character Secret," "Object Secret," or "Location Secret." Depending on the variant, the Detective may give more detailed hints.
- The hourglass is turned over. The players now have time to solve all three secrets.
- If the hourglass runs out before all secrets are revealed, you can continue the round for additional time, but with a penalty in the scoring system (if desired).
Strategic Tips
- Efficient Questioning: Since time is limited, Informants should ask questions that reveal as much information as possible.
- Collaboration: Informants should share information with each other that they've gathered from previous answers.
- Patience of the Detective: The Detective should be patient and clear when giving hints to avoid misunderstandings.
Special Rules
- Rule Modifications: Simplify by allowing the Detective to give more hints or make it harder by having the hourglass run faster.
- Variations: Points can be assigned for secrets solved to create competitions within the friend group. You can also shorten or lengthen game time based on player experience.
Enjoy uncovering the mysteries!