BatmanTM: The Animated Series Almost Got ’Im Card Game

by Matt Hyra

Cryptozoic Entertainment’s new card game Batman: The Animated Series Almost Got ’Im is coming in early 2017 and it’s sure to delight Batman fans, as well as fans of social deduction card games with hidden roles. The game is named after one of the most beloved episodes of the classic animated series, “Almost Got ’Im.” In the episode, the villains of Gotham City are at a secret hideout engaged in a night of Poker. They pass the time by regaling each other about instances in which they almost defeated the Caped Crusader, except that he gets away by the skin of his teeth at the last second every time. Little do the Villains know that one of them is actually Batman in disguise . . .

Poker!

In keeping with the theme of the episode, this game uses Poker hands as a means to power up your secret role abilities in the game. Social deduction card games like Werewolf and Mafia generally allow players to use their secret role abilities each and every round. However, as experienced players know, some roles are more powerful than others. This game uses Poker hands as a way to regulate the more powerful abilities. We’re not talking competitive “hand vs. hand” Poker here, just cards you want to acquire to make a specific Poker hand to activate your ability. For example, Batman needs Two Pair to Subdue a Villain. If Batman Subdues the required number of Villains, he wins. If the Villains can figure out which one of them in Batman in Disguise and Vote him down, they win.

Round Sequence

Each player takes a turn in which they try to improve their hand. On your turn, you may use your Character’s “Once Per Game” ability, if able and desiring to do so. (This is not your secret role.) The Brains (Player #1 that round) may accuse another player of being Batman. (Skip this the first round.) If seconded, it goes to a Vote. This is how the Villains can find the Bat! After Voting (or skipping the Vote), a Blackout occurs, during which players can use their secret role abilities with the help of the Dealer (moderator).

To find the cards you need to make your hand, you may draw the top card of the main deck, or take the top card from one of three face-up discard piles. After picking up a new card, discard down to five.