Ratrace
- Designer Alfons Rubbens
- Publisher Canada Games Company Lmt. , Gibsons , Grow Jogos e Brinquedos , H. P. Gibson & Sons , Holdsworth Thos & Sons
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Ratrace, you start with $200, a credit card, and a business in the working class. Your objective is to climb up to the middle and high society by managing businesses, education, social clubs, and auctions. You earn money, acquire status symbols, and strategically use credit to retire with $100,000. Events like marriage and divorce affect your social progress.
Who Is This Game For?
Ratrace is designed for 2 to 6 players aged 9 and up. As a medium complexity game lasting about 90 minutes, it suits players interested in economic themes who have some patience and basic understanding of economic mechanics.
How It Works
The game combines Auction/Bidding with Roll/Spin and Move mechanics. Players move their pieces around rings representing social classes and bid on businesses to generate income. Status symbols are needed to advance, and credit can be used to purchase items but must be repaid with interest. Managing cash flow carefully is key to winning.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Alfons Rubbens, Ratrace (1967) models social mobility through a unique blend of auction and movement mechanics on a social class board. Its theme of economic and social advancement sets it apart from typical economic games.
Pro
- Combination of Auction/Bidding and Roll/Spin and Move
- Thematic focus on social classes and advancement
- Playable with 2 to 6 players
- Approximately 90 minutes playtime
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Complex economic theme for younger players
- Longer playtime requires patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game explores social ascent starting from the working class through middle class to high society. It reflects economic and societal challenges in its mechanics.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on maintaining a steady income and acquiring status symbols before taking risky investments.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Ratrace requires at least two players and has no solo mode.
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?
Basic understanding of economic mechanics helps but is not mandatory.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ratrace is unique in combining social mobility theme with auction and movement mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and theme, it is better suited for older children and experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Auction/Bidding and Roll/Spin and Move defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Ratrace is recommended for players interested in social and economic dynamics with a willingness to invest about 90 minutes. It's less suitable for families with younger children due to its complexity.
