I’m the Boss! (1994) Board Game

I’m the Boss! is a classic board game designed by Sid Sackson and originally released in in 1994. The game is all about negotiation and deal-making, making it a fun and engaging experience for players who enjoy strategic thinking and social interaction.

Game Components of I’m the Boss!

Game Board: Features a circular track with 16 spaces, each representing share volume and investors for potential deals.

Deal Cards: 15 tiles showing share prices, numbered 1 to 15.

Play Money: Light card stock play money, sorted into denominations.

Die: Used for determining movement on the board.

Investor Cards: Six cards representing different investors.

Influence Cards: A custom deck of 98 cards with various effects on the game.

Turn Marker: A dollar sign-shaped marker[4.).

How To Setup I’m the Boss!

To set up the game, each player is randomly issued one investor card, with any remaining cards placed face up near the board. The player with the first investor alphabetically goes first, and the player to their right chooses the starting board space for the dollar marker. The deck of influence cards is shuffled, and each player is dealt five cards. The deal tiles are sorted in order and placed on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players can either leave the marker in place or roll the die to move it. They can then attempt to make a deal at the current board space or draw three influence cards.

Deal Negotiation: Players must agree on the terms of a deal, including which investors are involved and how the proceeds are distributed.

Influence Cards: These cards can change the dynamics of a deal, allowing players to take temporary control of investors, cancel other card effects, or take over the role of the boss.

Game End: The game ends after the conclusion of one of the last few deals, with an increasing probability of the game ending after the tenth tile is used. The player with the most money wins.

Player Experience

**I’m the Boss** offers a dynamic and engaging experience, blending cooperation and competition. Players must navigate intricate negotiations, using their influence cards strategically to either facilitate or disrupt deals. The game encourages a mix of honorable and cunning play, allowing players to choose their approach to achieving financial success. The structured yet flexible gameplay ensures that negotiations remain lively and unpredictable.

Pros

Engaging Negotiations: Simple yet deep negotiation mechanics that promote strategic play.

Dynamic Gameplay: Influence cards add unpredictability and excitement to each deal.

Balanced Complexity: Easy to learn but challenging to master.

Interactive: Encourages social interaction and negotiating skills among players.

Cons

Length: Games can sometimes outstay their welcome if played too long.

Luck: The roll of the die and the draw of influence cards introduce elements of luck that can affect outcomes.

Player Count: Best with 3-6 players; fewer players might reduce the complexity and fun of negotiations.

Personal Thoughts on I’m the Boss!

**I’m the Boss** is ideal for those who enjoy negotiation games with a blend of strategy and social interaction. It’s perfect for players who relish the art of negotiation and are comfortable with a mix of cooperation and competition. If you’re looking for a game that’s light on rules but deep in strategy, and you enjoy the drama and unpredictability of negotiations, **I’m the Boss** is a great addition to your game collection.

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