Crude: The Oil Game
- Designer James J. St. Laurent
- Publisher St. Laurent Games , Hexagames (I) , Pegasus Spiele , Stronghold Games
- Illustration William Bricker
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players act as CEOs of oil companies aiming to build multinational energy corporations. The game covers oil drilling, pumping, refining, and selling gasoline, with players buying and selling barrels in domestic and foreign markets. Economic events and market fluctuations require long-term strategic thinking. The goal is to reach a corporate value of $750 million first.
Who Is This Game For?
Suitable for players aged 13 and up who enjoy complex economic simulations. With a 90-minute playtime, it is a medium-length strategy game that demands prior experience and patience. Casual or family gamers might find it too involved.
How It Works
Crude uses mechanics like Commodity Speculation, Dice Rolling, and Market manipulation. Players invest in production facilities, trade oil and gasoline barrels, and respond to random events that impact prices. Income and end game bonuses encourage building a strong company over several rounds.
What Makes It Special
Designed by James J. St. Laurent, Crude is one of the earliest Euro-style economic simulations. Although it has no formal awards, it is considered a classic and was reprinted by Stronghold Games in 2012. Its focus on oil, gas, and trucking distinguishes it from other economic games.
Pro
- Early Euro-style economic simulation with historical significance
- Combines Commodity Speculation, Dice Rolling, and Market mechanics
- Requires long-term strategy with events and end game bonuses
- Deep thematic focus on the oil industry
Contra
- Relatively long playtime of about 90 minutes
- Demands strategic experience and patience
- Not suitable for players under 13 years
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates the international oil market, covering the full production chain from drilling to gasoline sales. It immerses players in the business and economic challenges of the oil industry.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the market and event mechanisms before developing complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Crude is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, making it a medium-length session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with medium to complex strategy games is recommended due to the game's economic and market systems.
How does this compare to similar games?
Crude is one of the earliest detailed economic simulations, combining Commodity Speculation with Dice Rolling and Market manipulation.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and minimum age of 13, it is better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Commodity Speculation, Dice Rolling, and Market mechanics sets Crude apart.
Fazit
Recommended for strategic players interested in detailed economic simulations with market dynamics. It requires patience and willingness to learn due to its complexity and length.
