Good Financial Games?

Suggestions

by Christian Killoran



The old 3M game Executive Decision fits criteria nicely. Nice abstract simulation of basic production and sales. If you have a background in microeconomics you'll appreciate the basic design. This is a no-luck game. You must bid for resources based on your prediction of their market price (as determined by total demand from all players.) Those who bid too low buy no resources that turn. Those who bid too high will be forced to try for higher selling prices or risk their profit margin. If you're serious about business games this one deserves a look.

Sadly, the game doesn't work at all with fewer than 4 players, and only really shines with exactly 6. Otherwise market prices are far too easy to predict. IMHO the 18xx games are also good business games, especially if you have a large number of players and you are able to try an investment only approach to your game.

Acquire is also an excellent game, but you may find it to be a bit abstract and luck dependent (I do, but I still love the game.)


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