The Pursuit of Happiness
- Designer Adrian Abela , David Chircop
- Publisher Artipia Games , Czacha Games , Ediciones MasQueOca , GAMEARChive , Kobold Spieleverlag
- Illustration Panayiotis Lyris
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The Pursuit of Happiness, you guide a character from birth through life, using time as a worker-placement resource. You take on projects, get jobs, buy items, build relationships, and raise a family. The game simulates everyday life, emphasizing that happiness is found in the pursuit itself. Strategic decisions shape your character’s life path within about 90 minutes of play.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy economic and life-simulation strategies. Its roughly 90-minute playtime suits extended game sessions. Prior experience with worker-placement mechanics is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
The Pursuit of Happiness uses worker-placement where time acts as your workers to perform actions. You select projects and jobs via open drafting and generate income to support your progress. The game ends with bonuses based on your life choices. Turn order is determined by your character’s stats.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Adrian Abela and David Chircop, The Pursuit of Happiness was nominated for the Cardboard Republic Daredevil Laurel in 2016. It uniquely combines life simulation with economic mechanics and is digitally available on Tabletopia. The use of time as a central resource stands out.
Awards
- 2016 Cardboard Republic Daredevil Laurel — Nominated
Pro
- Innovative use of time as a worker-placement resource
- Combines life simulation with economic gameplay
- Includes solo mode
- Nominated for Cardboard Republic Daredevil Laurel 2016
Contra
- Relatively long playtime around 90 minutes
- Complex mechanics require learning effort
- Recommended age 12+, not for younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates a character’s life journey from birth to death in a modern economic context, focusing on personal development and life decisions.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on efficiently managing your time resource and plan your life steps thoughtfully.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, The Pursuit of Happiness includes a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, plus setup and explanation time.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of worker-placement mechanics helps but is not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines life simulation with economic mechanics and uses time as a core resource.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and minimum age of 12, it is better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The use of time as a worker-placement resource and open drafting are key features.
Fazit
Recommended for players who appreciate complex life simulations with economic elements. It demands patience and strategic planning, especially in solo play.
