Startups
- Designer Jun Sasaki
- Publisher 4 Kavky , Oink Games , Popcorn Games
- Illustration Hiroko Izumida , Jun Sasaki
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Startups, you become an investor in six innovative companies aiming to change the world. You use capital and three hidden cards to acquire shares and become the largest shareholder. The game challenges you to anticipate your opponents' moves, invest wisely, and strengthen your position. Luck plays a role, but strategic thinking and player analysis are key. It plays quickly and supports small to larger groups.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 3 to 7 players aged 10 and up, Startups is a quick expert-level card game ideal for those seeking fast-paced economic strategy. No heavy prior experience is needed, but players should be comfortable with tactical decision-making. With a 20-minute playtime, it fits well into short game sessions.
How It Works
Startups uses mechanics like Area Majority/Influence and Set Collection to compete for the largest shareholding in six companies. Players invest capital and use three hidden cards to improve their standing. The game features Score-and-Reset and Hot Potato elements, requiring careful timing of investments and resource management. Anticipating other players' moves and increasing the value of unchosen resources are crucial.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Jun Sasaki and awarded Fairplay À la carte Runner-up in 2018, Startups stands out as a quick economic card game combining investment and majority mechanics. It belongs to Card Games: Draw and Discard and is available digitally on platforms like Steam and the Apple App Store.
Awards
- 2018 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
Pro
- Short playtime of about 20 minutes
- Supports 3 to 7 players
- Strategic depth through Area Majority and Investment mechanics
- Awarded Fairplay À la carte Runner-up 2018
Contra
- Luck factor due to hidden cards influencing decisions
- No solo mode available
- May be somewhat complex for younger players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game centers on modern startup companies aiming to revolutionize the world, placing players in the role of investors in today's economic environment.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Watch other players carefully and plan your investments ahead to secure majority shares.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Startups is designed for 3 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 20 minutes, allowing for quick rounds.
What prior experience do I need?
Startups is an expert-level game requiring basic tactical thinking but no extensive prior knowledge.
How does this compare to similar games?
Startups uniquely combines Area Majority with Investment and Score-and-Reset mechanics for a distinct tactical experience.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable for players aged 10 and up, especially families familiar with somewhat complex card games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Area Majority/Influence and Investment mechanics creates dynamic competition for resources and shares.
Fazit
Startups offers a fast, interactive economic game for groups of three or more. It blends strategic planning with luck, making it suitable for players who prefer short, engaging card games without long setup.
