Best Economic Sanctions Board Games of 2024: Top 12 Reviewed
Hey, fellow board game lovers! Ever wondered how the world of high-stakes finance, global politics, and – you guessed it – economic sanctions can be a blast to explore? Well, we’ve combed through piles of boxes to bring you our top picks that do just that. When choosing, we didn’t just throw darts at a board (though that’s another fun game idea). We looked for games that bring the thrill of navigating through economic sanctions in creative, engaging, and, yes, educational ways. From oil magnates to cold war spies, these games will test your strategy, negotiation, and perhaps your friendships. Let’s dive into the world where economy meets board game fun!
On this list:
12 Oil: The Great Adventure
This game pits players against each other as oil tycoons. We found it fascinating because economic sanctions play a big role in controlling oil prices. Plus, the strategy to navigate through these sanctions adds fun and complexity. A session with friends turned into a hilarious yet insightful lesson in economics!
11 Cold War: CIA vs KGB
In this game, you dive into the historical tensions between superpowers. Economic sanctions are used as a strategic tool to sway international influence. Our game night was a mix of laughter and tense moments, making it a memorable experience while learning about the Cold War’s economic aspects.
10 Container
Container immerses players in the world of international trade. What got us hooked was how economic sanctions could drastically change our strategies around importing and exporting goods. It led to some unexpected alliances and betrayals among us, which was absolutely fun!
9 Power Grid
This game challenges players to supply cities with power. Economic sanctions here affect fuel supply and market economy. Our attempt to outsmart each other on resources turned into a comedic battle of wits, making Power Grid a favorite for its strategic depth and the economic lessons.
8 Twilight Struggle
It’s a deep dive into the Cold War, where economic sanctions are among the various strategies to influence global politics. The game brought us intense debates, laughter, and some serious negotiation. It’s a hit for its historical accuracy and strategic complexity.
7 Pax Britannica
Players compete to dominate global trade in the Victorian era. Economic sanctions here are a powerful way to hinder opponents. It led to hilarious attempts at diplomacy among us, and it’s a great way to understand the economic aspects of colonialism.
6 The Gallerist
This game turns players into art gallery owners, where economic sanctions can affect the art market. Our game night was full of laughter as we tried to outsmart sanctions and become the top gallerist. It’s enlightening on how economies impact art.
5 Modern Art
As art dealers, players feel the impact of economic sanctions on art prices. Our gaming experience was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with fun negotiations and strategies to manipulate the art market, making it a memorable economic lesson.
4 Archipelago
Exploring the age of discovery, players must handle economic sanctions that affect trade and diplomacy. Our adventure was both hilarious and eye-opening, as we navigated through trade restrictions, making Archipelago stand out for its engaging gameplay.
3 Brass: Lancashire
Set during the Industrial Revolution, economic sanctions influence market access and competition. Our experience was filled with strategic planning and bursts of laughter as we tried to outmaneuver each other, highlighting the economic challenges of the era.
2 Imperial 2030
This game puts players in control of global superpowers, where economic sanctions are a tactic to gain advantage. Our session was a thrilling mix of strategy and fun, offering a futuristic take on global economics and diplomacy.
1 Pandemic: Rising Tide
As the best game on our list, it uniquely combines the challenge of saving the Netherlands from flooding with the strategic use of economic sanctions to fund the effort. Our game night turned into a cooperative mission, full of tension and teamwork, making it the most engaging and educational experience. The way economic sanctions were woven into the gameplay was both innovative and enlightening, proving that learning about economics can be immensely fun.
