Politics as Usual (2005) Board Game

Politics as Usual is a card game that was released in 2005, designed by Mike Anderson. It is a humor political game that is all about hand management and trading. The game is designed for 2-6 players, with a runtime of around 60 minutes. Players must navigate the world of politics, making deals and alliances to come out on top.

Game Components of Politics as Usual

Card deck featuring various political candidates and campaign strategies

Player tokens and campaign trail markers

Scorekeeping system

Rulebook

How To Setup Politics as Usual

To set up the game, each player selects a candidate and receives a starting hand of cards. Players place their tokens on the starting point of the campaign trail. The deck is shuffled, and each player draws a set number of cards based on the rules. The objective is to prepare for the campaign by gathering resources, endorsements, and other advantages.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hand Management: Players must manage their cards effectively to execute campaign strategies.

Area Control: Players compete to gain influence in different regions and demographics.

Resource Management: Managing resources such as money, endorsements, and popularity.

Objective: The goal is to win the most votes by the end of the campaign, thereby winning the White House.

Player Experience

Playing Politics as Usual is a dynamic and engaging experience, mimicking the intensity and unpredictability of real political campaigns. Players must balance short-term gains with long-term strategies, all while navigating the challenges and opportunities provided by the game’s card mechanics.

Pros

Interactive and Social: Encourages player interaction and strategic thinking.

Replayability: High variability due to the card deck and different candidate abilities.

Educational: Provides a fun way to understand basic political campaign strategies.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for a wide range of ages and skill levels.

Cons

Complexity: May have a steep learning curve for new players.

Length: Games can be lengthy, especially with a full complement of players.

Luck of the Draw: The random nature of the card deck can sometimes feel unfair.

Personal Thoughts on Politics as Usual

Politics as Usual is ideal for those who enjoy strategic card games and are interested in politics or social interactions. It’s a great choice for families or groups of friends looking for a game that combines fun with a bit of educational value. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking quick, simple games or those who prefer games with less luck involved.

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