by Manuel Marino | Board Games
Many board games draw inspiration from real-life experiences, including sports, real estate, and banking. Recently, game creators have started incorporating politics into their lineup of gaming options. These games are not only entertaining and educational, but they also provide insight into the lifestyles and campaign strategies of individuals who are presidents, senators, and congresspeople. Players learn what it takes to run a country and campaign for various offices worldwide.
In a game called “The Making of the President,” players are introduced to two well-known figures in American political history: the charismatic John F. Kennedy and the controversial Richard M. Nixon. Set during the 1960 election, players assume the role of one of these two distinct political personalities. Although Kennedy won the real-life election, the outcome is uncertain in this game. Players learn what it takes to become the leader of the United States.
“Die Macher” is another game that invites players to participate in seven political races held in Germany. In this game, players must develop their own party strategy, understand how poll results are tabulated, and learn how the media influences political races. This engaging and informative game provides an in-depth understanding of German politics.
For players … ...Read the rest.
“Learning Politics Using Board Games”
by Manuel Marino | Board Games
It must have been a devastating setback. The year was 1934, in the depths of the Great Depression. Charles Darrow was unemployed, but he had an idea – a board game called Monopoly. He believed the game could lead to financial success and help him overcome the challenges of the depression. Darrow approached the renowned Parker Brothers game company to publish and help him market his creation.
Parker Brothers agreed to evaluate Darrow’s board game but were not impressed. Founded in 1883 by 16-year-old George Parker, the game publishing company had been producing and marketing games and puzzles for 51 years. They had experienced both success and failure and knew the game industry well. Representatives of the giant game company found 59 reasons why they didn’t think Darrow’s game would be successful.
Charles Darrow, however, refused to accept their opinion. He believed in his idea and decided to publish Monopoly himself, selling it through department stores. He had 5,000 copies of the board game printed.
Hope was scarce during the harsh Christmas of 1934, and money was even scarcer. Despite this, Monopoly became a hit. Almost all 5,000 copies sold, and within a year, Parker Brothers were … ...Read the rest.
“Board Games – The Best Selling Board Games Of All Time”
by Manuel Marino | Board Games
Birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and almost any other “special occasions” often result in a gift of some kind of board game in my home. I recently had a birthday, and my spouse spoiled me with two board games and two card games, all of which are incredibly enjoyable to play. On the evening of my birthday, we broke out the Lost Cities Board Game, which was a welcome addition to our collection as we already own and enjoy the Lost Cities Card Game. My spouse and I have had this on our list of top board games for families for quite some time, so I was really excited to receive it and wanted to play it the first night.
Lost Cities Board Game: Game Play
Gameplay in the board game version of Lost Cities feels more interactive. You get to move your little explorers along paths to earn points. You can choose different paths to try to gain various benefits before your opponents can. Playing this with two players might not be as fun as with three or four since basically whatever you don’t get, your opponent WILL get. However, they do mitigate that by removing some … ...Read the rest.
“Board Games For Families – Lost Cities Board Game Review”
by Manuel Marino | Board Games
In a time of strife, upheaval, and revolution, your beloved city has plunged into chaos, eagerly awaiting a leader to guide it. You are more than ready to take on the challenge, but so are several other revolutionaries! It’s time to demonstrate to the city who is truly in control. Blackmail the general, bribe the merchant, and threaten the priest with extreme force. Gather support within the city and spark the Revolution!
Revolution is a strategy board game centered on the theme of political turmoil and gaining influence over a city. It is considered a gateway game, one that is less complex than a standard strategy board game, but introduces gaming concepts and mechanics to new or casual board game players. In the case of Revolution, the game focuses on bidding and area control mechanics as you attempt to use money, blackmail, and force to outmaneuver other players and take control of key areas in the city.
The objective of the game is to garner the most support within the city. This is achieved either by accumulating support points during the game or by controlling key areas of the city at the end of the game. These areas … ...Read the rest.
“Revolution! Board Game Review”
by Manuel Marino | Board Games
Risk is an engaging board game that allows you to assume the role of a military leader in an attempt to conquer the world. Here are some strategies to help you achieve global domination:
- Fortify Armies on Frontline Territories
Risk is a game of conquest, so it’s crucial to concentrate your forces on territories bordering enemy lands. This strategy makes it more difficult for opponents to invade your territories and easier for you to attack and conquer theirs.
- Avoid Overextending
Capturing too much territory before having the resources to defend it can ultimately be counterproductive. If you control a vast expanse of land but lack sufficient forces to protect it, you may become a more appealing target. Strive to balance territorial expansion with military growth.
- Establish a Stronghold in Australia
Australia is the easiest continent to conquer and defend, as it can only be attacked externally from a single location. Additionally, controlling Australia grants you two extra armies each turn.
- Secure Continents Only If You Can Maintain Control
Conquering a continent draws the attention of other players who may not want you to maintain control over it. If you cannot defend a continent long enough to benefit from … ...Read the rest.
“Risk Board Game Tips”
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