New America (1980) Board Game

New America is a board game released in 1980 by Family Pastimes. It is an economic and political game that allows players to experience the challenges and decisions involved in building a new nation. With a runtime of 120 minutes and designed for 2-12 players, it offers a unique cooperative gaming experience where players work together to achieve common goals.

Game Components of New America

Game board representing North America

Player tokens and markers

Resource and energy cards

Research and Development team cards

Rulebook

How To Setup New America

To set up the game, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a Research and Development team card, which outlines their specific roles and objectives. The resource and energy cards are shuffled and distributed according to the rules. The game requires a cooperative effort, so players need to discuss and agree on their initial strategies before starting the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Cooperative gameplay

Resource management

Strategic planning

Teamwork and discussion

Objective

The objective is for players to redesign North America’s social-economic system by managing energy and resources effectively. Players work as Research and Development teams to solve various economic and social problems before the system collapses.

Player Experience

Playing New America is a rigorous mental workout that encourages discussion and teamwork. Players must collaborate to make decisions on resource allocation, energy management, and social reforms. The game is designed to provoke thoughtful conversations among players, making it an excellent tool for high school and college classes, as well as for groups of thinking friends.

Pros

Encourages teamwork and cooperation

Stimulates critical thinking and problem-solving

Addresses timely and relevant issues

Suitable for educational settings

Cons

Can be complex and overwhelming for new players

Requires a significant amount of time and dedication

May not appeal to players seeking competitive, rather than cooperative, gameplay

Personal Thoughts on New America

New America is ideal for those who enjoy strategic, thought-provoking games and are interested in economic and social issues. It is particularly suited for mature, thinking individuals who appreciate the challenge of redesigning a complex system. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for quick, light-hearted entertainment, it offers a unique and engaging experience for those willing to invest the time and effort.

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