Money! (1999) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Money! is a card game designed by Reiner Knizia and was released in in 1999. It is a game that revolves around bidding, set collection, and simultaneous action selection. The game has received mixed reviews from players, with some praising its strategic depth and others criticizing its simplicity.

Game Components of Money!

Deck of money cards representing various currencies

Banknote cards (bluff cards)

Chinese coins (worth 10, but not part of any currency)

Player hands consisting of six money cards and one banknote card

How To Setup Money!

To set up the game, each player is dealt a hand of six money cards plus one banknote card. Two piles of money cards, each with four cards, are drawn randomly from the top of the deck. These piles are the basis for the initial bidding.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Bidding Mechanic: Players bid for turn order using their money cards and banknote cards to bluff.

Auction: Players bid on the two piles of money cards to acquire sets of cards from the same currency.

Objective: The goal is to have as many cards from as few currencies as possible. Having too many different currencies dilutes their value.

Scoring: Players are penalized for having few cards in a currency, with a total value below 200 resulting in negative points.

Player Experience

Playing Money involves strategic thinking and bluffing. Players must carefully manage their bids to avoid giving away too much information while trying to accumulate valuable sets of money cards. The game requires attention to the currencies and the cards already in hand, making it a challenging and engaging experience.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game involves complex bidding strategies and bluffing, making it appealing to players who enjoy strategic gameplay.

Variable Setup: The random draw of money cards ensures that each game is different, enhancing replayability.

Simple yet Engaging: The rules are straightforward, but the gameplay is rich and engaging.

Cons

Learning Curve: Understanding the optimal bidding strategies and managing currencies can take some time to master.

Luck Factor: The random draw of cards can significantly influence the game’s outcome, which might not appeal to players who prefer purely strategic games.

Personal Thoughts on Money!

Money is for players who enjoy economic and auction games with a strategic twist. It is ideal for those who like to bluff and outmaneuver their opponents. While it may not be the best fit for players seeking a game with minimal luck and maximum control, Money offers a unique and engaging experience that can be enjoyed by a group of friends looking for a fun and challenging game night.

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