Learn How to Play?
The best thing about Startup High is that it is not only easy and simple to play, but extremely intuitive as well, especially if you like startups.You can learn the game through our How to Play Video or download the PDF version of the rulebook.
This is the most fun I've had playing a board game. Every time you play it, it's a new experience!
Madhav Deepak
Startup High is a good beginner friendly game- it has some very interesting mechanics.
Nadir Hussain
Very interesting game with slightly complex rules but you get the hang of it eventually.
Hritwik Sarangi
Verified User
The best thing about Startup High is that it puts you in the shoes of an entrepreneur!
Shivang Singh
It is fun and stimulates your brain at the same time. It can easily be enjoyed with friends and family.
Parth Pathak
Know The Game
GAME THEORYWatch Gameplays
PODCASTGAME FAQ's
Is Startup High a complex game and difficult to play?
Nope. It is quite an easy game, and it is very intuitive. It might be overwhelming initially for some people, but as soon as you start playing, the game will come naturally to you.
What is the quickest way to learn to play Startup High?
We have made the rulebook easy to understand and crisp. However, if you do not like the rulebook, you can always go to the video rulebook. Find the QR on the back of the box!
How do I finish the game?
You finish the game by collecting Opportunity Cards. Collect cards that make you complete any 3 of the 4 goals (Complete = 100%).
How can I perform multiple actions in one turn?
Multitasking is a founder’s superpower! You can perform different actions, but remember, it’s one at a time – no cloning yourself!
Are there limited resources in the game? What happens when the Resource Card deck finishes?
In this game, unlike in life, you have unlimited resources (sort of). Simply shuffle the discard pile and keep it in the draw deck.
Is it possible to get resource change back in this game, and if so, how is it managed?
In the game, every decimal counts. Sorry, no change given – it’s all about that precise budgeting!
What is the maximum number of Resource Cards a player can hold?
13 is the maximum number of Resource Cards you can hold. Networking Cards and Opportunity Cards do not count. Exceed it, and you’ll have to let go of some assets (discard excess cards).
What are these weird statements on the top of some Resource Cards?
Try rearranging the cards and see if it forms a story.
Which Opportunity Cards do I have to collect?
You have to collect the Opportunity Cards that align with the 3 goals you have selected for your startup.
I exceeded 100% in marketing. Can I transfer/sell this extra 20%?
If you have exceeded 100% in any department, you are exceptional at it. But that is it. No transfers allowed.
How do I get a discount on the Opportunity Card?
It is not a discount, thematically speaking, but you can buy cheaper Opportunity Cards when you have hired teams from the same department as the Opportunity Card. Different numbers of teams give different benefits.
If I have 3 Teams, can I avail of the discount on every Opportunity Card?
No, you need a team in the same department as that of the opportunity card to avail a benefit.
What is the rule for replenishing the Opportunity Card deck during the game?
Simply shuffle all the Opportunity Cards and draw 6 more in the new round.
How do Networking Cards work in the game?
Networking is like collecting LinkedIn endorsements. Use Networking Cards wisely to forge alliances or subtly trip up competitors. Use them immediately, or save them up for later.
WTF are book recommendation cards?
Book Recommendation Cards are like bonus knowledge – collect and trade them for perks. Remember, knowledge is power, especially in the startup ecosystem.
What are Market Forces, and how do they influence the game?
Think of Market Forces as your game version of sudden stock market swings. They shake things up — for better or worse!
I have picked 2/3 Trigger Resource Cards. What do I do now?
Ideally, only 1 trigger card would be effective (per the game standard rules). However, if you are up for a challenge and are an expert in tracking cards and rounds, pick as many market force cards as the number of trigger cards picked!
Why do these Market Force cards have QR codes on them?
We couldn’t find an alternative from the startup ecosystem to this – Melody itni chocolaty kyu hai?’
How do you trade resources with other players?
Offer, renegotiate till death, shake hands, and exchange Resource Cards.
I'm interested in exploring different variations of the game. What options are available for doing so?
Are you already feeling entrepreneurial, eh? Feel free to ‘disrupt’ the standard play.
Are there any circumstances where players can 'bend' the rules, or are the rules strict?
Rule bending? In startups, we call that ‘innovation,’ but let’s keep it fair and square house rules win.
How should players interpret and apply the rules when a situation not explicitly covered in the rulebook arises?
When in doubt, think like a startup founder: innovate (but fairly) and agree as a team. Democracy rules!
I want to take back an action of mine. Other founders are not allowing me to do that.
No take-backs once an action is played – just like pressing send on that risky tweet.
Some cards have ambiguous text.
Confusing card text? Debate, decide as a group, or use the most logical interpretation. Think like a problem-solving founder.
What even are Knowledge Cards?
Do not worry – they are not cards you need to learn about because they are not a part of the game! But yeah, reading them in your free time would help you in life.
What are the takeaways from the game?
I am glad you asked this. Head over to www. startuphigh.in/takeaways to read and analyse.
I read something about easter eggs in your game. What are they?
Would they still be called easter eggs if I told you about them?
Can I go and learn about being entrepreneurial after playing this game?
Multiple ways, anywhere and everywhere. But why don’t you start here at www.entrepi.world