GANGSTERS is a strategic live-action game based on organized crime — where you play as a “criminal” competing to build the biggest fortune.
Games involve:
It’s a little like hide-and-go-seek for grownups ... or a cross between HvZ and GTA.
"Live-action" means GANGSTERS take place in the REAL WORLD — no phones, computers, dice or playing cards.
It's a great way to unplug from the digital malaise and experience thrilling, interactive fun with friends (or even make new friends).
Games foster collaboration, strategic thinking, and deliver the electrifying rush of fast and furious (and friendly) competition.
Playing GANGSTERS requires three simple items...
Assassin players use squirt guns.
HvZ has Nerf.
GANGSTERS has … options.
The weapons used in GANGSTERS don't actually shoot, so cap-guns, potato-guns, even broken guns all work just fine. Even items like (toy) knives, (fake) brass knuckles, or (rubber) snakes are all viable options.
Money makes the world go round ... (or so I'm told).
It's also what separates GANGSTERS from most other live-action games.
Similar games offer the rush of survival, but only GANGSTERS offers the thrill of building an empire.
Like a real-life chess match, games focus less on Rambo-like carnage, and more on back-alley deals and strategy.
So what are cherries?
Cherries are the main commodity players buy and sell in GANGSTERS.
They're a stand-in for illegal items, and are basically a token, serving no function other than to be "trafficked."
Many items can work as cherries: checkers, poker chips, golf-balls ... if it fits in your pocket, it can probably be a cherry.
GANGSTERS is a game of connections. Everyone plays one role, but each role is linked due to their unique abilities...



MODERATOR
Hi! I'm the Moderator! (Some call me the "Black Market.")
Technically I'm not a player; in fact, I run things around here: from getting games started to collecting items at the end — I'm like a referee and facilitator rolled into one. Let's play!
CHERRY DEALER
Hi there, I'm the Cherry Dealer, and I love selling cherries; I buy them cheap from the Black Market!
If you're looking for cherries to flip, then look no further — let's do business!
FENCE
G'day! I'm a Fence! I've got "world-wide" connections with the Black Market, so if you're looking to move items for profit, I can help.
Got cherries or weapons to unload? Let's talk!
ARMS DEALER
Yo! I'm an Arm's Dealer. I deal in weapons (which I get cheap from the Black Market).
Whether you need better self-defense or you're looking to ice your enemies, I'm you're guy! Hooah!
COP
Freeze! Hands up! Nah, I'm just messin' with ya'. I'm a Cop! And I love messin' with criminals — and puttin' 'em behind bars!
Of course, if the offer's right, I might be willing to take a bribe ... but you didn't hear that from me!



I might put words here. Eventually. In fact, I know I will. You can bet on it.
GANGSTERS is just getting started! More content, features and updates are on the way!
Keep reading to discover more details or explore ways to play GANGSTERS.
Contact us for more information:
gangstersthegame@gmail.com
Do you enjoy novel experiences, off-beat interactions, or adrenaline-pumping thrills?
Don't miss out!
We're looking for people in the WNY area willing to help us playtest Gangsters!
Email us to let us know you're interested, or follow us on Facebook for upcoming events.
We want to get GANGSTERS into as many colleges as possible, starting Fall of 2026!
"Starter Kits" are available for groups willing to give it a try!
Get yours today!
Email us for more information.