Corrupt Bargain: The 1824 Presidential Election (2022) Board Game

Corrupt Bargain: The 1824 Presidential Election board game is based on the controversial election of 1824 in the United States. This election was significant as it marked the end of the Era of Good Feelings and the beginning of the Second Party System. The election saw four candidates running for president, including John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford, and Henry Clay. Despite Andrew Jackson winning the popular vote and electoral votes, no candidate secured a majority in the Electoral College, leading to a contingent election in the House of Representatives where Adams was ultimately chosen as president in a controversial deal with Henry Clay.

Game Components of Corrupt Bargain: The 1824 Presidential Election

Game board representing the United States with electoral college votes

Candidate cards for Adams, Jackson, Crawford, and Clay

Event cards influencing the campaign

Electoral college tokens

Campaign tokens

Player boards for tracking progress

How To Setup Corrupt Bargain: The 1824 Presidential Election

To set up the game, each player selects a candidate and receives the corresponding player board and tokens. The game board is placed in the middle, and event cards are shuffled and drawn. Each player starts with a set amount of campaign tokens and electoral college votes based on the historical context of the 1824 election. Players then begin their campaigns, navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the event cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Campaigning: Players use tokens to influence states and gain electoral college votes.

Negotiation: Players can form alliances or make deals to sway the outcome.

Event Cards: These cards introduce historical events and challenges that players must adapt to.

Electoral College Management: The primary objective is to secure the majority of the electoral college votes to win the presidency.

Player Experience

Playing **Corrupt Bargain** offers a unique blend of strategy and historical insight. Players must balance short-term gains with long-term strategies, making it a game that requires both tactical thinking and an understanding of the historical context. The game encourages negotiation and alliance-building, adding a social element to the gameplay.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched to reflect the 1824 election.

Strategic Depth: Players need to manage resources, form alliances, and adapt to events.

Replayability: The random draw of event cards ensures each game is different.

Educational Value: Players learn about the 1824 election and its significance in U.S. history.

Cons

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

Length: Games can be lengthy as players navigate the intricate campaign process.

Cost: The game is priced at around £68.95 or €68.00, making it an investment for casual players.

Personal Thoughts on Corrupt Bargain: The 1824 Presidential Election

**Corrupt Bargain** is ideal for history enthusiasts and fans of strategic board games. It offers a rich and immersive experience that combines historical education with engaging gameplay. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and cost, it is a treasure for those who enjoy delving into historical scenarios and strategic campaigning.

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