Class Struggle (1978) Board Game

Class Struggle is a board game that was first released in in 1978. It is designed by Bertell Ollman, a professor of politics at New York University. The game is known for its focus on political and economic themes, aiming to simulate the dynamics of class struggle in a capitalist society.

Game Components of Class Struggle

Game Board: Features 84 squares representing a path towards revolutionary confrontation.

Player Tokens: Workers (hammer symbol), Capitalists (top hat), Farmers (tractor), Small Businessmen (cash register), Professionals (brief case), and Students (mortarboard).

Genetic Dice: Determines the player’s class at the start of the game.

Chance Cards: Advantages or disadvantages for players, including ‘Crisitunity’ cards in updated versions.

Rule Books: Basic and full rule books, plus a booklet for expanding on the game’s lessons.

Alliance Squares: Allow Minor Classes to form alliances with Major Classes.

How To Setup Class Struggle

To set up the game, players roll the genetic dice to determine their class. The game board is laid out, and each player places their token on the starting square. Chance cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The game includes detailed rules, but the basic setup involves distributing the tokens and cards according to the class determined by the dice roll.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Roll-and-Move: Players move around the board based on dice rolls.

Class Alliances: Minor Classes can form alliances with Major Classes (Workers or Capitalists).

Chance Cards: Players draw cards that can either help or hinder their progress.

Elections and General Strikes: Players can initiate these events to gain power or resources.

Game Objective

Win the Revolution: The ultimate goal is for the Workers to unite and take power from the Capitalists, or for the Capitalists to maintain control.

Avoid Nuclear War: Landing on certain squares can trigger a nuclear war, ending the game unless the Workers or their allies prevent it.

Player Experience

Playing **Class Struggle** involves a mix of strategy and luck. Players must navigate the complexities of class alliances and chance events while aiming to achieve their class’s objectives. The game is designed to reflect real-world class struggles, making it both educational and engaging. However, the rules can be complex, and some players may find the gameplay cumbersome.

Pros

Educational Value: Teaches players about Marxist principles and class struggles.

Historical Context: Reflects the societal issues of the late 1970s and remains relevant today.

Strategic Depth: Involves forming alliances and making strategic decisions.

Unique Theme: Offers a distinctive perspective on class struggle and capitalism.

Cons

Complex Rules: The full rules can be overwhelming for new players.

Luck-Dependent: The roll of the genetic dice and chance cards can significantly influence the game’s outcome.

Balance Issues: Some modifications suggest the game may be unbalanced in favor of Capitalist players.

Outdated Mechanics: The roll-and-move mechanic can feel outdated compared to modern board games.

Personal Thoughts on Class Struggle

**Class Struggle** is for those interested in a unique blend of education and entertainment, particularly those with an interest in Marxism and social politics. The game is suitable for players looking for a game that sparks discussion and reflection on societal structures. However, it may not appeal to players seeking quick, straightforward gameplay or those who prefer more modern game mechanics. Despite its complexities, **Class Struggle** remains a cult classic and a valuable educational tool.

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