Ponzi Scheme*

Ponzi Scheme plunges players into the shadowy world of financial deception, inspired by the infamous scam run by Charles Ponzi in 1919. As ambitious fraudsters, you'll engage in the delicate art of attracting investors to fund nonexistent ventures, promising them outrageously high returns. The game becomes a balancing act of acquiring funds and managing the ever-increasing dividends owed, all while attempting to outmaneuver your fellow scammers. The objective is clear yet challenging: avoid bankruptcy at all costs and emerge as the mastermind behind the most lucrative sham corporation.

Gameplay Overview

  • Fund Acquisition: Select new Fund cards to gain cash and Industry tiles, but be prepared to fulfill the promised rewards in future rounds.
  • Strategic Trading: Engage in inside trading with opponents to acquire desired Industries or offload your own at attractive prices.

Special Features

  • Time Wheel Mechanism: A unique feature where players rotate their Time Wheel to track and manage their fraudulent empire's promised payouts.
  • Risk Management: Carefully balance between expanding your empire and the risk of being unable to pay back your investors, leading to inevitable bankruptcy.

Conclusion

Ponzi Scheme offers a compelling and thematic experience that challenges players to think critically about risk, strategy, and timing. It's a race against the clock and each other, with the specter of bankruptcy looming over every decision. This game is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of negotiation, strategy, and the thrill of living on the financial edge—without the real-world consequences.

Nominated for 2 awards.

  • 3 - 5 Players
  • 60 - 90 Minutes
  • 12+ years old
  • Easy to learn

We like Ponzi Scheme so much that we recommend it in the following board game recommendation lists 2024

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