The Bottom Line (1985) Board Game

The Bottom Line is a classic economic board game released in 1985 by Maruca Industries. Designed by A. Trevor Pepperell and featuring art by Marek Mann, this game has been a favorite among strategy game enthusiasts for decades. The game’s premise is centered around players buying and selling stocks, negotiating deals, and building up their wealth to come out on top.

Game Components of The Bottom Line

Game board

Player tokens

Money ($1,000,000 cash per player)

Chance cards

Property cards

Rulebook

How To Setup The Bottom Line

To set up the game, each player selects a token and places it on the starting space. Each player begins with $1,000,000 in cash. The Chance and property cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The game board is laid out, and players are ready to begin their financial journey.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Accumulate $5,000,000 and land on the Bank to buy it.

Roll-and-Move: Players roll dice to determine how many spaces they can move.

Economic Management: Players manage their money, buying properties and dealing with Chance cards.

Strategic Decision-Making: Players must make strategic decisions about investments and risk management.

Player Experience

Playing The Bottom Line is an engaging and challenging experience, requiring a blend of luck and strategic thinking. Players navigate through various financial scenarios, managing their wealth and making decisions that can either propel them toward their goal or set them back. The game simulates real-world financial challenges in a fun and interactive way.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The financial theme makes the game appealing to those interested in economics and business.

Strategic Depth: The game requires players to think strategically about their financial moves.

Replayability: With Chance cards and variable player decisions, each game can be different.

Classic Feel: The 1985 game offers a nostalgic experience for those who enjoy vintage board games.

Cons

Outdated Mechanics: Some players may find the roll-and-move mechanic outdated compared to modern board games.

Luck Factor: The roll of the dice and Chance cards can introduce significant luck, which might not appeal to everyone.

Complexity: Managing money and properties can be complex for younger players.

Personal Thoughts on The Bottom Line

The Bottom Line is ideal for players who enjoy economic simulations and strategic planning. It is a good fit for families or groups of friends looking for a classic board game experience with a financial twist. While it may not be as polished or complex as modern games, it offers a unique and engaging experience for those who appreciate its nostalgic charm.

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