How to Play Windfall: The Oil Crisis Game

Just after the 1979 American oil crisis, top computer game designers had a brilliant idea: the oil crisis is not just subject of foreign policy but also the basis of a great game. Windfall: The Oil Crisis Game was born from this reasoning. Windfall is an economic simulation game that puts you at the helm of a major oil company. Follow these steps to steer your company to gaming success.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Think like an oil CEO. You need to think about what's best for the long term profitability of your company in order to be successful in the game. While some "green" policies might help the company, it's important to keep in mind that oil profit for your company is the most important objective.

2. Observe demand for oil. You can monitor domestic demand for your oil by watching the service stations. There are six service stations on the game, two of which you control. Check out the length of the lines at the gas stations to gauge the existing level of demand for your product.

3. Watch the supply of oil. Of course, if you're paying attention to demand then you have to keep an eye on supply. Windfall uses a simple, low resolution rendering of oil ships docking at refineries as an indicator of supply level. Check supply regularly so you know how to set wages and prices of your company.

4. Set wages, prices and sellers. These settings provide you with the most operational control over your company. You must balance the cost of wages with worker's contentment. Similarly, you have to set the right price of the oil so that you make money without being undercut by competition. Also, select from a number of OPEC oil sellers to master the Windfall game.