Z-Man Games Power Struggle Board Game - Strategic Political Card Game for Adults & Teens - Perfect for Game Nights, Parties & Family Gatherings

First of all, I payed $55 for this game at a hobby store yesterday, so I am ready to kick myself in the head, but I needed a board game at that moment, and I like the store, so I will forgive myself.I played the game twice last night, once with my family, and once with friends. Up to five players can play, and three is still very fun.The first game was with five players, and it took a long time, in part because the instruction manual is quite long and detailed, and in part because two younger kids were playing (a slightly immature 13 and very immature 16-year old). We ended up letting the kids quit as soon as we were comfortable with the game play and we restarted.The second game took just over an hour with three players. I suspect that later games will become even shorter as we become accustomed to everything that we can do in a turn.The goal of the game is to obtain 4 victory points. One can try to gain "influence" through controlling the board room of the company, gain "corruption" by bribing other players for special abilities, gain "stocks" by purchase, or achieve victory points by upgrading departments of their company. Setting up advisory boards also can give victory points. The final way to gain a victory point is known only to you, and that is by having a more powerful company than your secret archenemy (usually another player).Turns start out slowly, but become fast paced with play, and whoever controls the communications department also controls how turns are played, adding an exciting level of game play.Expect backstabbing, bribery, thievery, and a host of legalities. This game is very well put together. Just be careful when choosing players; most children will be put off by the slow start and complicated rules, especially if everyone is learning the game together.