Run of Show Card Game
A role play and engine building game that juxtaposes the skill of campaigning with the changing timeline of a political season.
Guiding Question:
- What does it take to change your or someone else’s mind?
Objectives:
- Analyze how roles, values, and agendas influence political decision-making in a simulated election process.
- Evaluate the role of trust, persuasion, and compromise in building successful political alliances.
- Explain how personal identity and civic values shape leadership strategies and campaign outcomes.
- Apply strategic thinking to navigate shifting political dynamics and achieve influence within the game.
- Reflect on the challenges of designing a political process that balances fairness, representation, and change.
Download the Black and White Print-and-Play version.
Game Facilitation Presentation:
Game Time: 15-60 minutes
Number of Players: 12-32 players
Game Play: Team vs Game and 1 vs 1
About the Game:
A roleplay and engine building game that juxtaposes the skill of campaigning with the changing timeline of a political season. Governing officials are elected based on the founding documents. But in the 21st century, those rules of engagement are under pressure from societal changes. By simulating a series of political seasons, where allegiances, resources, and values are put on display, players can imagine an election process that would handle today’s complexities better.
Post-Game Reflection Questions:
The core intent of this game is to experience different roles, perspectives, and events within a political season. Elections are often frustrating when values and beliefs clash. Lean into the thought exercise of designing a “better” Run of Show given these complexities. A list of guiding questions are organized using the following categories:
- How did your role(s) affect your ability to persuade or be persuaded?
- What biases or priorities shaped your decisions throughout the game?
- What strategies helped build trust or credibility with others?
- How did alliances or relationships evolve as the game progressed?
- How did the run of show affect your ability to plan and act?
- What lessons does this game offer about effective communication and influence?
- How does a broader understanding of civic knowledge help you navigate different aspects of a political season?
AP Standards Connections
LO 5.8 2 A Explain how the different processes work in a U.S. presidential election. LO5.10 2D Explain how campaign organizations and strategies affect the election process.
LO 5.11 2E Explain how the organization, finance, and strategies of national political campaigns affect the election process.
Principles and Virtues
Majority Rules/Minority Rights, Consent of the Governed, Democracy, Republic, Moderation, Prudence, Respect