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The Business Game

The Business Game

2-6
Players
90
Minutes
8+
Age
1965
Published

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What to Expect

Players operate mines and compete for limited transport resources like trucks, barges, and ships to move ore to market. Dice rolls trigger ore production and affect transport availability. The game emphasizes strategic risk-taking and negotiation due to scarce transport vehicles. Players can also charge others for shared shipments to fill transports.

Who Is This Game For?

This game suits families and enthusiasts aged 8 and up who enjoy economic themes. With a 90-minute playtime, it fits players patient enough for strategic competition. Prior experience with economic games is helpful but not required.

How It Works

Using mechanics such as Income, Pick-up and Deliver, Point to Point Movement, and Roll / Spin and Move, players move vehicles across the board to transport ore from mines to harbors. Transport is limited, creating competition. Dice rolls generate new ore and trigger production cards. The goal is to earn a million dollars in profit by selling at foreign ports.

Income Pick-up and Deliver Point to Point Movement Roll / Spin and Move

What Makes It Special

The Business Game is a classic 1960s economic game combining income and pick-up and deliver mechanics on a mining-themed 3D board. Also known as Mine a Million, it was published by Waddingtons. The flexible 2-6 player count supports diverse group sizes except for 5 players, where competition is uneven.

Pro

  • Combines Income and Pick-up and Deliver mechanics
  • Economic theme with transport and resource management
  • Flexible 2 to 6 players
  • Strategic risk due to limited transport

Contra

  • No solo mode
  • Not suitable for 5 players due to uneven competition
  • 90-minute playtime requires patience
  • Lacks modern game mechanics

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game simulates tin mining and ore transport in an economic environment, focusing on moving ore by trucks, barges, and ships to markets.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on efficient transport routes and balancing risk when acquiring resources.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, The Business Game is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A game takes about 90 minutes, classifying as an extended play session.

What prior experience do I need?

Basic knowledge of economic games helps but is not required.

How does this compare to similar games?

It combines classic Income with Pick-up and Deliver mechanics on a mining-themed board.

Is this suitable for families?

Yes, from age 8, though some gaming experience is recommended due to strategic depth.

What mechanic makes it special?

The combination of Income, Pick-up and Deliver, and Point to Point Movement on an economic theme.

Fazit

Recommended for players who appreciate economic competition and transport management. Due to its length and complexity, it's best for patient players and families with some gaming experience.