Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
Looking to laugh all the way to the bank with crazy business ideas? The Big Idea is your go-to for a quick, creativity-packed game.
Highlights
- Hilarious company names
- Tense investment decisions
- Quick and easy to learn
- Guaranteed social interaction
Keep in mind
- Language dependency can be a factor
- Die roll luck is significant
- Simplicity might be a drawback
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready for the cutthroat world of business with The Big Idea, a card game that blends light strategy with the sheer fun of creating companies with hilarious names! Think pairings like "Erotic Pants" or "Mentholated Chicken" – creativity is the limit (and the source of much laughter). Each player takes on the role of a venture capitalist, launching their own startups. When you create a company, you automatically secure a share in it. But the masterstroke lies in secretly investing in other promising ideas or publicly buying shares, all while trying to guess which companies will truly take off. Each round, a die decides which companies go public, and payouts are calculated based on shares, cards used, and the die roll. It's a game that makes you ponder: is it worth helping an opponent if their company could make you a fortune? Despite its simplicity, The Big Idea offers moments of tension and tough decisions, perfect for those who enjoy a quick game full of unexpected interactions. It's the kind of game that proves, sometimes, the craziest ideas are the most profitable!
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
In English
Best player count
BGG community vote
3
REC
4
REC
5
REC
6
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Where to Buy
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Publisher
Arclight Games, Cheapass Games
Designer
James Ernest
Artist
Damon S. Brown
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,405owners
149wishlist
34want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players does The Big Idea support?
The game is designed for 3 to 6 players, perfect for gathering a group.
How long does a game take?
A game is quite quick, typically lasting around 45 minutes.
Is the game difficult to learn?
No, the rules are very simple and straightforward, focusing on fun and creative ideas.
Do I need to know English to play?
There's little text on the cards, and what's there is easily memorable or adaptable, but having someone who understands can facilitate gameplay.
Is it a game more for strategy fans or party game fans?
It's a hybrid! There's light strategy in the investment decisions, but the vibe is definitely party with the crazy creations.
Is it worth it for someone who has never played board games before?
Yes! It's a great entry point because it's easy to learn and very fun.
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