Corruption (2000) Board Game

Corruption is a board game released in 2000, designed by C. Brent Ferguson, J. Scott Reeves, and Cyril Saint Blancat. The game centers around the theme of political corruption, where players take on the roles of politicians trying to amass wealth and power through bribery and deceit. With a runtime of 45 minutes, Corruption is suitable for 3-7 players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Corruption

70 Player cards (including Character and Bribe cards)

24 Contract cards representing construction jobs

3 Government cards (City Hall, County Seat, and the Capitol)

14 Phone Cards for the “Little Black Book” variant

Each player set includes:
– 6 Bribe cards ($1,000, $2,000, $4,000, $6,000, $8,000, $10,000)
– 1 District Attorney
– 2 Reporters
– 1 Hit Man.

How To Setup Corruption

To set up the game, each player takes a set of ten player cards of the same color. The three government cards are placed face up in the center of the table. The 24 contract cards are shuffled and placed face down. Six contract cards are then dealt face up, two under each government body card. Any unawarded contracts from the previous round remain in play, and six new contracts are added each round.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Bluffing, Card Game

Number of Players: 3 to 7

Objective: Win the most lucrative construction contracts by outbribing competitors.

Gameplay Phases:

Invitation to Bid: Deal six new contract cards face up, two under each government body.

Corruption: Players place player cards (bribes or characters) on contracts or in government Swiss bank accounts.

Awarding Contracts: Reveal all cards, resolve actions in the order played, and award contracts to the player with the highest sum of bribes.

Player Experience

In **Corruption**, players engage in a strategic and often humorous battle of wits, using bribes, district attorneys, reporters, and hit men to influence the awarding of contracts. The game requires a mix of bluffing, strategic planning, and a bit of luck, making each round dynamic and unpredictable.

Pros

Engaging Strategy: Combines bluffing and strategic card placement.

Interactive: Players constantly interact with each other’s moves.

Replayability: High due to the random distribution of contracts and player cards.

Theme: Unique and witty take on corruption, adding a layer of humor and realism.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the multiple phases and card types.

Length: May take longer than expected due to the strategic depth and number of players.

Luck Factor: Random card draws can significantly impact gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Corruption

**Corruption** is ideal for players who enjoy strategic card games with a social interaction element. It is particularly suited for groups that appreciate a blend of strategy and humor. The game is not for those who prefer simple, quick games or are easily frustrated by elements of luck. For fans of Bruno Faidutti and complex card games, **Corruption** offers a challenging and entertaining experience.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.