John Company: Second Edition (2022) Board Game

John Company: Second Edition is a board game designed by Cole Wehrle and published by Wehrlegig Games. It is set in the 18th century during the height of the British East India Company’s power and influence. Players take on the roles of powerful directors of the East India Company, navigating the political landscape of colonial India and competing for wealth and power.

Game Components of John Company: Second Edition

A high-quality six-panel board

Punchboard coins and player boards

108 wooden family pieces with 18 unique designs in 6 colors

Beautiful resin elephant, stackable tower pieces, and metal flags

Over 200 cards featuring period artwork

4 different scenarios and a robust automated opponent for 1-2 player games.

How To Setup John Company: Second Edition

Setting up John Company: Second Edition involves several steps, but the design of the game components helps streamline the process. The game includes multiple scenarios, each with its own setup card that outlines the starting conditions, such as initial debt, company standing, and resource allocations. Players receive random bonuses, including money, positions in the company, influence on the Prime Minister, and a set of promise cards. The main board features tracks for company standing, debt, and available funds, along with areas for various offices and a map of India with trade routes. Setup is facilitated by the compact box with organized trays for components and a clear flow of the round indicated on the main board by a red ribbon.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Bribery

Dice Rolling

Negotiation

Push Your Luck

Simulation

Voting

Worker Placement.

Game Objective

Players take on the roles of ambitious families aiming to use the British East India Company for personal gain while collectively managing the company’s fate. The objective is to accumulate the most prestige (victory points) by navigating the company’s bureaucracy, managing finances, and retiring family members from offices. The game ends after a specified number of rounds, and the player with the most points wins. However, if the company fails, scores can be negatively affected, adding a layer of complexity and risk management.

Player Experience

John Company: Second Edition offers a complex yet engaging experience. Despite the intricate gameplay with multiple phases and offices, the game is surprisingly easy to teach and play, especially with an experienced player guiding the process. The game’s simplicity in individual actions contrasts with the profound impact these actions have on the overall game state, making each decision critical. The emphasis on negotiation and cooperation among players adds a layer of social interaction, while the dice rolling and random events introduce an element of unpredictability.

Pros

Deep Strategic Depth: The game offers a rich strategic puzzle with many layers of decision-making.

Historical Accuracy: It provides a detailed and educational look at the British East India Company’s history and its impact.

High Replayability: Multiple scenarios and random events ensure each game is unique.

Engaging Gameplay: The combination of simple actions and complex ramifications keeps players engaged.

Cons

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

Player Discomfort: Some players may feel uncomfortable with the game’s themes of imperialism and exploitation.

Long Playtime: Games can last several hours, which may deter players looking for quicker experiences.

Personal Thoughts on John Company: Second Edition

John Company: Second Edition is for players who appreciate complex, strategic games with a strong historical context. It is ideal for those who enjoy negotiation and cooperation while navigating intricate game mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a quick, straightforward gaming experience or those who are sensitive to the historical themes of imperialism and exploitation. This game is a masterpiece for those who can appreciate its depth and complexity, but it certainly isn’t for everyone.

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