Keep Cool (2004) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Keep Cool is a board game released in 2004 that focuses on the theme of climate change. Designed by Klaus Eisenack and Gerhard Petschel-Held, the game challenges players to navigate economic, environmental, negotiation, and political aspects in order to combat the effects of climate change. The game was published by Spieltrieb and features artwork by Christof Tisch.

Game Components of Keep Cool

Countries: Players represent groups of countries, each with distinct starting positions and special abilities.

Factories: Black factories (representing polluting industries) and green factories (representing eco-friendly industries).

Greenhouse Cards: These cards introduce random climate-related events, such as disasters or beneficial changes.

Carbon Chips: Used to track carbon emissions and global warming levels.

Protection Tokens: Players can use these to mitigate the effects of climate disasters.

Secret Target Cards: Each player has two secret targets related to protection tokens, green factories, or black factories.

Carbometer: Measures the level of global warming.

How To Setup Keep Cool

To set up Keep Cool, players first determine which countries will be represented based on the number of players. For example, with three players, the countries are USA & Partners, Europe, and Tiger Countries. Each country starts with a specific number and type of factories. Players are also dealt secret target cards, which they keep hidden throughout the game. The carbometer is set to the initial level, and the deck of greenhouse cards is shuffled and placed within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Player Turns: Each turn begins with drawing a greenhouse card, which can introduce climate-related events.

Economic and Climate Decisions: Players must balance economic growth by building factories and protecting the climate by reducing emissions and implementing protective measures.

Negotiation: Players can negotiate with each other to achieve their goals.

Conferences: Players can participate in global conferences to make decisions affecting all players.

Lobby Groups: Players must consider the influence of lobby groups like the oil industry or environmentalists.

Game Objective

Each player must fulfill both their economic target and one of their two secret targets.

The game ends when a player achieves their targets or when the global temperature exceeds a critical threshold, leading to a loss for all players.

Player Experience

Playing Keep Cool is an immersive experience that simulates the complexities of international climate politics. Players must navigate the challenges of economic growth while mitigating the impacts of climate change. The game encourages strategic thinking, negotiation, and cooperation, mirroring real-world climate negotiations. The random events introduced by greenhouse cards add a layer of unpredictability, making each game unique.

Pros

Educational: Promotes understanding of climate change and its complexities.

Interactive: Encourages negotiation and cooperation among players.

Realistic: Reflects real-world challenges in balancing economic and environmental interests.

Replayability: High due to random events and multiple secret targets.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its intricate mechanics.

Length: Games can last up to two hours.

Limited Casual Appeal: It may not be as engaging for players looking for a light, casual game.

Personal Thoughts on Keep Cool

Keep Cool is ideal for those interested in environmental issues, international politics, and strategic gameplay. It is particularly suited for educational settings or for groups of players who enjoy complex, thought-provoking games. While it may not appeal to casual gamers, it offers a rich and informative experience for those willing to delve into its depths. If you’re looking to engage in a game that combines education, strategy, and cooperation, Keep Cool is an excellent choice.

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