Object of the game: To take over the world

Steve Jackson Illuminati is an innovative card game. There are two versions of Illuminati, the standard set and a trading card version. This article will explain the standard set. Illuminati is a game full of secrets, conspiracy, and fun.

Two to six players can play at once. What really makes Illuminati fun is that each game can be totally different experience. There are three types of cards in the basic set: 8 Illuminati cards and 83 different Group cards, and 15 special cards. The set also comes with blank cards so you can make your own group or special cards.

The Illuminati cards represent which group you play that is trying to take over the world. Each Illuminati group has a different goal to achieve this lofty task. The Illuminati groups include the UFO's, Gnomes of Zurich, Bermuda Triangle and five others. They all have a special ability that give them an advantage in the game. Since each group has their own special ability, this makes game play different for each player. In addition to their own special ability, each Illuminati has a different method for taking over the world. My goal for taking over the world and winning the game is different from other players. This helps keeps the game fresh and exciting each time it is played.

Every player needs to build their power structure. This is done by taking over groups that are in play, either on the spread of cards or controlled by other players. You must control at least one group, or it's game over. Cards will have arrows that show how many groups can be added to it. Your power structure will earn you megabucks--the currency in Illuminati. Controlling certain groups are the goal of some of the Illuminati. An example would be the Illuminati group Society of Assassins who win the game when they control six violent groups.

Illuminati is highly addictive and terribly entertaining. Before playing, read through all the rules. Bluffing, cheating, and hidden agendas are encouraged while playing Illuminati. This can add to the fun as long as everyone is okay with adding certain aspects to the game.

Illuminati is a great crowd pleaser and just becomes a better playing experience with more players. Certain game play mechanics like diplomacy really come into the game when there are four or more players. If secrets, conspiracy, taking over the world and having fun sound interesting, then Illuminati will be the game for you.