Power Struggle

Power Struggle

HumorNegotiation
Players
3-5
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
5 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
105 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
12+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
3.4 / 5
Year
2009

About the game

Power Struggle is a corporate-themed negotiation game where players scheme their way up the ranks through bribery and majority control. Each round, a new chairman and division heads are named, granting bonuses and advantage cards, while humorous event cards trigger a range of actions like hiring, resigning, or bribing rivals for their cards. Accepting a bribe boosts a card's power but nudges you up the corruption track. The first to hit four of six possible victory conditions, from majority tracks to besting a secret rival, wins the game.

Hobbli's Notes

Hobbli's team enjoys the sly corporate satire running through Power Struggle's event cards, which deliver much of its humor. The bribery and negotiation systems create genuinely dynamic player interaction rarely seen in other euro games. Its high downtime score signals real waiting between turns, so it needs a patient, engaged group to shine, and we're less certain how it stacks up against similar negotiation-heavy titles.

What we like

  • Sharp corporate satire delivered through humorous event cards.
  • Deep bribery and negotiation systems drive dynamic interaction.
  • Multiple viable paths toward the four needed victory points.
  • Rewards efficient long-term planning.
  • Distinctive corporate theme rarely explored in board games.

Keep in mind

  • High downtime score indicates significant waiting between turns.
  • Longer 105-minute playtime demands a committed group.
  • Negotiation-heavy design won't suit players who dislike direct confrontation.

Who it's for

Gamers who enjoy negotiation-heavy euro games ages 12+, in groups of 3-5 comfortable with a longer, higher-downtime session.

Mechanics

Area Majority / InfluenceBribery

Games similar to Power Struggle