John Company

Sierra Madre Games, Fox in the Box · Board game · 2017
1–6 · best 4 Solo 90–180 min Weight 4.2/5
6.7 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
6.7 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for history buffs and political junkies looking for a corporate greed simulator.

Highlights
  • Heavy historical simulation
  • Intense political negotiation
  • Great gameplay flexibility
  • Deep and engaging themes
Keep in mind
  • Requires high focus
  • Might be heavy for beginners
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ever wondered what was happening behind the scenes of the company that practically ruled an entire nation? John Company throws you straight into the heart of the British East India Company, revealing that the path to global dominance was a mix of massive profits and intense political chaos. Here, you aren't just commanding an army, but managing a dynasty striving to secure a prestigious spot in London's high society. The real twist? All players collectively control the Company, meaning you'll face budget decisions that could benefit the organization or your own personal pockets (and spoiler: you'll usually want that money for your summer estate!).

Spanning 250 years of history, you'll navigate through Indian rebellions, British government attempts to regulate trade monopolies, and the constant struggle to maintain control. The game offers amazing flexibility: you can dive into quick 90-minute scenarios covering specific eras or embark on an epic campaign spanning centuries. If you love heavy strategy games but want something more accessible than Phil Eklund's classic titles, this is it. It's a political and economic simulation where negotiation, bribery, and a dash of dice-rolling luck determine who becomes the next superpower and who is left behind by history.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 OK
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4 BEST
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Game details

Families

Country: India Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) History: Anglo-Indian Wars Theme: Colonial
Publisher Sierra Madre Games, Fox in the Box
Designer Cole Wehrle
Artist Cole Wehrle
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a game take?
It depends on the scenario! It can be a quick 90-minute session or an epic multi-hour campaign.
Is it hard to learn?
It's more accessible than other heavy historical simulators, but still requires attention to political and economic rules.
How many players can play?
1 to 6 players, with player interaction being the highlight of the experience.
Is the game very complex?
It has a medium-high weight. It's a serious strategy game with very tight mechanics.
Do I need expansions?
The base game is quite complete and offers various scenarios for different experiences.