Some cities have a character all their own, making them a great location in which to set a novel -- or a board game. These are my picks for the best board games with strong ties to a specific city.
1. Scotland Yard
Photo © Erik Arneson
Set in London, the map is a somewhat abstract version of the city. One player is Mr. X; the rest of the players chase him via taxi, bus and subway. For two to six players.
2. San Marco
Photo © Erik Arneson
The city of Venice is the setting for this masterpiece. Players try to build their influence in the various regions of the city, building bridges over the canals and placing aristocrats in the best places. For three or four players.
3. N.Y. Chase
This game is a close relative of Scotland Yard, except that Mr. X is now in New York City. There are several notable rule changes, including the ability for detectives to employ roadblocks to stop Mr. X. For two to six players.4. 221B Baker Street
Few things are more inherently tied to London than the most famous of all detectives, Sherlock Holmes. Players travel the streets of London finding clues and trying to solve cases in this mystery game. Several expansions are available to add to the game's replay value. For two to six players.5. Doge
Another game set in Venice, Doge finds players competing to build their influence and prestige through the construction of buildings and palaces along the Grand Canal. For three or four players.