Agent Avenue places two undercover animal spies in a quirky suburban neighborhood, each trying to catch the other using stealth and strategy.
Because both players use the same “I cut, you choose” card-drafting mechanism, the game blends bluffing and set collection in tight interactions. While it uses charming anthropomorphic visuals, the gameplay centers on timing and deduction rather than narrative immersion. Consequently, every decision feels tense because you must anticipate your opponent’s reaction before they see your hand. Moreover, optional Black Market cards add variability and surprise to each play.
Pros
- Clever combination of cut-and-choose drafting and set collection makes each move feel meaningful
- Quick turns and short total playtime keep energy high and tension sharp
- Multiple win paths (catch-up race, codebreaker set, daredevils risk) add variety in each play
- Artwork is delightful and detailed, enhancing table presence though theme remains light
- Optional Black Market expansion layers unpredictability and adds strategic depth
- Different flavors like two-player duel and team variants keep sessions fresh
Cons
- Limited depth may leave experienced gamers seeking more strategic weight
- Random card draws can sometimes derail careful bluff setups despite planning
- Theme is largely superficial and does little to enrich core gameplay experience
- Player interaction boils down to card choice rather than dynamic board tactics
- Advanced variant adds complexity that may overwhelm new players
- Games are so short that they may feel too lightweight when played solo
Comparison to Similar Games
Compared to through-the-matching deduction games like Jaipur, Agent Avenue moves faster and focuses more on bluffing than resource optimization. Unlike Hanamikoji, which limits choices for tactical depth, Agent Avenue retains choice variety via draft tension. Where The Crew uses cooperative deduction, Agent Avenue remains competitive and personal in its mind games. Although less engine-driven than Splendor, its tight two-player design offers more psychological play per minute.
Final Thoughts
Agent Avenue is a sharp, quick bluffing duel that excels at cut-and-choose mechanics. Though it may lack deep strategy or thematic weight, its immediate psychological tension and charming presentation deliver memorable, fast-paced encounters. If you seek something light, replayable, and rewarding in short bursts, it fits the bill. However, if you crave engine-building or thematic immersion, it may leave you wanting more.
And remember, Frontline Gaming sells gaming products at a discount, every day in their webcart!
