Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
Perfect for those who love fast-paced card games with a bit of bluffing and influence battles.
Highlights
- Fast and dynamic gameplay
- Very easy to teach beginners
- Constant tension reading opponents
- Supports large player groups
Keep in mind
- Luck can influence the outcome
- Limited depth for hardcore gamers
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Ever dreamed of being that visionary investor who bets on the next big company that will change the world? In Startups, that's exactly what you do! The game puts you and your friends in the shoes of financial sharks, trying to identify which of the six startup companies are about to take off. The goal is simple, but the execution is pure tension: you want to be the largest shareholder of each company, because only the one with the majority stake can cash out the profits at the end.
But don't think it's all about luck. To win, you need a sharp instinct. With three hidden cards in your hand and your capital, you must analyze every move your rivals make. Is that friend of yours trying to monopolize the tech firm, or are they just bluffing? The game blends investment strategy with the adrenaline of trying to predict your opponent's next move. It's the kind of game where you need caution, but also the courage to invest heavily at the perfect moment.
One of the coolest things is how versatile the game is. It works well with a small group, but it truly shines when the table is full, turning the fight for shares into a piece of organized chaos. Additionally, the current version introduces improvements like the 'market' dynamics and the 'Anti-Monopoly Chip', which add layers of depth without making the rules complicated. If you enjoy fast-paced games that require you to read the table and play your opponents' minds, Startups is the right bet. Also, it's worth checking out the company logos — they were designed by a famous Japanese typographer and add a special charm to the experience. Ready to invest?
But don't think it's all about luck. To win, you need a sharp instinct. With three hidden cards in your hand and your capital, you must analyze every move your rivals make. Is that friend of yours trying to monopolize the tech firm, or are they just bluffing? The game blends investment strategy with the adrenaline of trying to predict your opponent's next move. It's the kind of game where you need caution, but also the courage to invest heavily at the perfect moment.
One of the coolest things is how versatile the game is. It works well with a small group, but it truly shines when the table is full, turning the fight for shares into a piece of organized chaos. Additionally, the current version introduces improvements like the 'market' dynamics and the 'Anti-Monopoly Chip', which add layers of depth without making the rules complicated. If you enjoy fast-paced games that require you to read the table and play your opponents' minds, Startups is the right bet. Also, it's worth checking out the company logos — they were designed by a famous Japanese typographer and add a special charm to the experience. Ready to invest?
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
3
REC
4
BEST
5
REC
6
OK
7
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
4 Kavky, Oink Games, Popcorn Games
Designer
Jun Sasaki
Artist
Hiroko Izumida, Jun Sasaki
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
13,094owners
2,114wishlist
247want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Is the game complex to learn?
Not at all! The rules are very simple and straightforward, allowing anyone to start investing in just a few minutes.
How many people can play?
The game accommodates 3 to 7 players, making it great for those who want to gather a whole group at one table.
How long does a game last?
It's very quick, around 20 minutes, making it a perfect 'filler' between larger games.
Do I need to speak English or Japanese to play?
No! The game has no language dependency, so you can play comfortably regardless of the language.
Is it purely a game of luck?
There is luck involved, of course, but analyzing your opponents and managing your hidden cards are what determine who gets rich.
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