Class Struggle (1978) – Board Game Guys

Class Struggle

Class Struggle is a board game for two to six players, designed by Professor Bertell Ollman and published in 1978 by Avalon Hill. The game was intended to teach players about the politics of class struggle and Marxism. The game was even translated into multiple languages and sold over 200,000 copies.

Why is Class Struggle Popular?

Class Struggle is significant because it is a unique board game that teaches players about Marxist theory and the politics of class struggle. It is also notable for being one of the few board games that is explicitly political in nature. Despite its niche subject matter, the game sold well and was even translated into multiple languages.

Game Components of Class Struggle

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

Player Tokens: Hammers for Workers and top hats for Capitalists.

Chance Cards: Include messages such as “You are treating your class allies very badly” and “Your son has become a follower of Reverend Moon.”

Dice: Used for determining player movement.

Class Roles: Capitalists, Workers, Farmers, Small Business-people, Professionals, and Students.

Alliance Mechanisms: Players can form alliances with minor classes like Students and Farmers.

How To Setup Class Struggle

To set up the game, players first determine their class by a roll of the “genetic” dice. Each player receives their respective class tokens and starting assets. The game board is laid out, and Chance cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Players start at the beginning of the board, ready to move based on dice rolls.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement: Players move around the board based on dice rolls.

Chance Cards: Players draw Chance cards which can either advantage or disadvantage them.

Class Alliances: Players can form alliances with minor classes to strengthen their position.

Elections and Strikes: Players can initiate elections or general strikes to advance their class interests.

Game Objective: The ultimate goal is to avoid nuclear war and win the revolution, with the outcome being either a transition to socialism or regression into barbarism.

Player Experience

Playing **Class Struggle** can be a unique and educational experience, especially for those familiar with Marxist theory. The game is designed to illustrate the inequalities and power dynamics between different social classes. However, the game’s original rules have been criticized for being half-baked and in need of modification to enhance playability.

Pros

Educational Value: Teaches players about Marxist politics and class struggle.

Historical Context: Reflects the Cold War era and its societal dynamics.

Charming and Humorous: Includes humorous and satirical Chance cards.

Interactive: Allows for forming alliances and strategic gameplay.

Cons

Rule Complexity: Original rules are often criticized for being unclear and needing modification.

Balance Issues: Can be unbalanced in favor of Capitalist players if not adjusted.

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

Limited Replayability: Without rule modifications, the game might not offer significant replay value.

Personal Thoughts on Class Struggle

**Class Struggle** is ideal for those interested in Marxist theory, history, and sociology. While it may not be a game designed for serious gamers looking for deep strategy, it serves as a unique educational tool and a fascinating piece of historical gaming culture. Modifications to the rules can make the game more engaging and playable, but it remains a charming and thought-provoking experience, especially in its ability to spark discussions about class and social inequality.

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