jeffh@brl-tgr.ARPA (the Shadow) (07/26/85)
> I am interested in a review of the following games: > Junta, (pronounced HOON-tuh) West End Games $17.95 ~2 hrs to play (game can easily be shortened) 4-7 players (the more the merrier) The rules are well-written and not too complex, but do read them thoroughly. We were playing the same afternoon I got it, with only one or two `discussions' about rules interpre- tation. This is a fun, irreverent look at the problems of a South American Banana Republic. If you take the game seriously, you might as well not play. Each player represents a politically prominent family (junta). El Presidente (elected by the players) makes political appoint- ments, distributes the foreign aid money (pocketing as much as possible), and tries to stay alive. (If he does not manage to stay alive, a new `President for life' is elected.) This is a two-level game. Politics drive it; where bribery, threats and assassinations are the tools. If these gentle methods don't work, then you can always start a coup. This is a very simplified wargame with one's forces being determined by one's political appointment. Conniving and backstabbing are definitely the rule. Lots of fun. > Talisman, Sorry, can't help you. > Cosmic Encounter, Ditto. > Illuminati Steve Jackson Games $6.95 (basic game) $5.95 (expansions 1 & 2) $4.95 (expansion 3) 1-3 hrs (depending on # of players & playing styles) 2-8 players possible / 4-6 optimal Easy to learn. It takes some time to develop a good playing strategy, though. The game of conspiracy. Try to take over the world by stealth and guile. Players each represent one secret organization. These try to capture various groups, thus gaining more power and income. Each player has different goals, making for some unusual alli- ances. Subtlety is a highly desirable trait, since the other players can bring you down if they gang up. Morals and honor are definite handicaps in this games. One of my all time favorites. Addictive. "When someone asks if you are a god, say `yes.' Worry about theology later." the Shadow ARPA: <jeffh@brl> UUCP: {seismo,decvax}!brl!jeffh