Though designed as a social experience, Hidden Agenda can be played solo, if you're primarily interested in is seeing the story play out (and how it can change). Even if you're on your own, though, you'll need to use a smartphone or tablet.Follow Patrick on Twitter. If you have a tip or a story idea, drop him an email here.Have thoughts? Swing by Waypoints forums to share them!No one has direct control over the action in Hidden Agenda. People often joke about some games being little more than an interactive movie, but in this case, that's absolutely true! At certain points, the game pauses and allows the players to make a decision, which varies from the mundane (stay together or go alone) to the momentous (shoot someone or stand down). Crucially, the decision must be made by the majority. If four people are playing—the game supports up to five—and the vote's split, someone needs to switch sides. Cue the arguing and cajoling.
There are interesting caveats. At the start of a scenario, players get three "takeover" cards. If the room is about to make a decision you disagree with, you can play one and assume control over what happens. When you use a takeover card is important because cards can stack on top of one another. If you assert control, someone else can play their own card and steal it from you. This can go back and forth until everyone is out of cards—or everyone gives up.