Town of Salem Review (Maktesh)
Fans of social party games such as Mafia or Werewolf will find themselves perfectly at home in Town of Salem. Most rounds consist of 15 players, each with a specific –and secret– role. The goal is simple; accomplish your own task and pursue your faction’s win conditions while piecing together the roles of the other 14 townspeople. The game offers a solid amount of customization, including dozens of characters, homes, pets, and even specialized execution animations. (Would you prefer to be crushed by boulders or burned at the stake?)
Town of Salem’s animation style is simple and fun, offering a glimpse into the absurdity of kangaroo courts and, of course, the Salem Witch trials. (In the spirit of a wet blanket, it’s also worth noting that history has grossly embellished the actual Salem witch trials, as there were no burnings or mass executions, but rather nineteen hangings over a few years.) Most game rounds last about 15-25 minutes, making this title great for a quick session. Furthermore, ownership of the Steam version gives players the ability to play on both the mobile and browser versions.
Even several years into its lifespan, matchmaking is fast and easy, and most of the players are jovial and semi-serious. While one or two players will likely disconnect prior to their deaths, most tend to stick it out, as “completed” games offer points which can be used to purchase various cosmetics. For players who end up enjoying the basic mechanics, there is also the expansion “The Coven,” which offers further roles and even greater chaos.
Ultimately, players who enjoy social games are going to get a solid bang for their buck and Town of Salem will likely scratch that rare itch.