Some board games not only require you to implement a good strategy, they require you to negotiate with the very opponents you're trying to defeat. These are my picks for the best negotiation board games.
1. Diplomacy
Image courtesy of Avalon Hill
Euopre, circa 1900. Up to seven powers compete to control the continent by making and sometimes breaking promises as armies and navies move around the board. Be ready to spend an entire day playing Diplomacy, but if you're into negotiation games there is none better. For 2 to 7 players.
2. I'm the Boss (aka Kohle, Kies & Knete)
Image courtesy of Face 2 Face Games
I'm the Boss is a masterful game in which players try to perfect the art of the deal. On your turn, you're the boss -- and you decide if a deal's worth trying to make or not. Of course, someone else can try to take the "boss" title away from you. Or they could tie up key investors so the deal can't be made. Or... This is probably the ultimate wheeling and dealing board game. For 3 to 6 players, designed by Sid Sackson.
3. Genoa
On every turn, every action is negotiated. "Who will pay me to move into this building? How much?" As with most negotiation games, you have to play with the right crowd or else risk games that drag on forever. But Genoa, previously released as Traders of Genoa, is full of tough negotiations. For 2 to 5 players.4. Junta
Image courtesy of West End Games
Players, working as ruling families of the mythical la Republica de los Bananas, try to connive, cajole, threaten and (occasionally) ally their way to the biggest bank account. For 2 to 7 players.
