Build your business and sabotage the competition to win in the new card game, Control Alt Deceit. From Aidan Price and first time designer Étienne Garbugli, Control Alt Deceit simulates the growth of technology companies from the garage prototype all the way to filing for IPO (and, thus, winning the game). There is nothing special or unique about the gameplay; it really is as simple as drawing and playing cards. Where Control Alt Deceit stands out is theme — and the great name! All the card abilities pertain to challenges faced by startups like hiring rockstar developers and getting funding.
Players start with five cards and one unfair advantage card. The unfair advantage is your secret ability to help you edge out the competition. Each turn, players draw three cards and play two. Much like in developing a business, you can be hit with random roadblocks, and these come in the form of event cards. Event cards are played immediately and don’t count toward the two plays. Some have positive effects like drawing extra cards or swapping unfair advantage cards while others are negative like losing half your hand. Other cards you play add money to your business venture like employee perks, funding, and competitive advantage cards. To win the game and file for IPO, you need a specified amount of money depending on the number of players and one of each business model card (product, marketing, and first client). Maintain your position for one round, and your business is successful! But wait! — it’s not that easy. Much like many tech companies who are fighting for their share of the market, you can play dirty by playing sabotage cards on your opponent. Unless they reveal…