PROPOSAL TO ADD A STRATEGY GUIDE TO THE GAME OF LIFE by Jeff Massey Scott Anderson Christopher Wentzell November 3, 1997 PROPOSAL TO ADD A STRATEGY GUIDE TO THE GAME OF LIFE The purpose of this report is to propose an addendum to the instructions for The Game of LIFE. Overall, the original instructions are concise and easy to read. They convey all the necessary information to the Game's players. We do believe, however, that a set of written Strategies would improve the balance between chanceand skill for all players. Players of different skill levels would be more evenly matched and hence would experience greater enjoyment playing each other. Additional customers might be attracted to the Game if the strategy aspect was highlighted. This could be accomplished by advertising the inclusion of a Strategy Guide on the Game's cover. Broadening the Game's audience appeal and increasing customer satisfaction would improve marketability. Also, if people are happy with one game, they might be more inclined to buy another game from your company. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS As mentioned previously, the instructions for The Game of LIFE are comprehensive and succinct. They follow a logical order consistent with the progression of the game. But, since winning the Game is contingent on both luck (e.g. the number you spin) and strategy (e.g. whether you choose the Business routeor the University route), a written set of proven Strategies would be beneficial tothe Game's players. The specific Strategies we have devised are explained below. Choosing a Career Path: Salary Choosing whether or not to go to a university is a big decision. The instructions rovide only minimal information needed to make this choice. The Strategy, however, compares the different lengths of the two routes with the, potentialdifferences in salary. This will help guide players through an important decision, one that could have significant financial consequences for them throughout the rest of the Game. Insurance The instructions do not contain any information on insurance except that a player "decides whether or not to buy auto insurance." The Strategy elaborates on the instructions by explaining the types of insurance. Potential hazards that the insurance protects against are outlined. Furthermore, a simple cost comparison gives players an idea of the cost of insurance versus the potential cost of a typical hazard if uninsured. Revenge Revenge is straightforward: either collect $200,000 from any player, or send any player back 10 spaces. But, there are certain situations when either move might be the better choice. The Strategy explains when each move is in a player's best interest. This advice could go a long way towards achieving the ultimate goal--winning the game. Lucky Days Landing in a Lucky Day allows you to collect $20,000, or perhaps even $300,000. To get the $300,000, you have to speculate. The Strategy reminds players that a primary goal of the Game is to get the most money. A sum like $20,000 might not help much in attaining this goal, so speculating may very well be the key to success! Playing the Market The instructions tell you how and when you can play the market. A player trying to win the Game should know why to play the market. This Strategy tells you why, and explains your odds, too. The Strategy helps a player make a more informed choice, replacing sheer luck with a degree of skill. Borrowing The instructions provide information about borrowing money, but it is spread out under three different headings. The Strategy consolidates this information, and also provides some additional practical advice. This advice can save you money during the Game, possibly helping you to win, and it also pertains to real world money management. Millionaire & Millionaire Tycoon The Day of Reckoning is where you decide whether to go on to become a Millionaire, or try to become a Millionaire Tycoon. This could be your last chance to win the Game. The instructions list the results of making each choice, but only the Strategy Guide gives you reasons for each selection--and there are valid reasons for each. Your position in relation to other players, and the amount of money each player has all figure in to the decision. CONCLUSION The Game of LIFE has been around for a few decades. We have analyzed the Game's instructions and have concluded that, though satisfactory in their present form, they could be enhanced by a parallel set of Strategies. These Strategies, as outlined in this report, would provide greater enjoyment and competitiveness amongst the players, leading to more satisfied customers. Greater customer satisfaction ultimately leads to increased sales. We hope you will seriously consider including the Strategy Guide we have proposed with The Game of LIFE. Click here to see the test report. Click here to see the audience analysis. |