The Political Machine

 PC
  • Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Release Date: Aug 12, 2004
User Score
5.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 9 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 9
  3. Negative: 4 out of 9
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  1. EvaD.
    Sep 1, 2004
    10
    This game far exceeded my expectations. I found politics is anything but boring in the Political Machine. Moving John Kerry around the country trying to defeat opponent Arnold Shwarzeneggar and win the Oval office on Election Day was fun and hectic. Though the game is turn-based, i felt like every moment is precious. I especially like the real life data and issues represented in the game. This game far exceeded my expectations. I found politics is anything but boring in the Political Machine. Moving John Kerry around the country trying to defeat opponent Arnold Shwarzeneggar and win the Oval office on Election Day was fun and hectic. Though the game is turn-based, i felt like every moment is precious. I especially like the real life data and issues represented in the game. Gives me an idea on where the rest of the country sits on issues. The longer i played the more comfortable i was building political capitol and strategizing. It wasn't easy but it was fun!… Expand
  2. JoeL.
    May 19, 2004
    10
    It's still in Beta, but it's the most fun you will ever have with politics.
  3. KelliM.
    Aug 21, 2004
    0
    Game only works on a few select brands of video cards and you have to download and re-do all kinds of stuff for it to work even if you have one of their choice brand of video cards. that is just plain bad programming. compatibility is much needed!
  4. RobertH.
    Sep 6, 2004
    0
    I've had video card issues as well. Tech "support" has been all but non-existant. If you're not a techie, beware of this game!!!
  5. G.Davis
    Sep 6, 2004
    3
    I found the game difficult and confusing even on the beginner setting. Worst of all, I did not understand why my candidate lost or how the different factors of the game affect winning or losing.
  6. Cameran
    Sep 7, 2004
    10
    Be sure you have a firm grasp on common-sense politics. I picked up and understood this game within the first 30 minutes, and went on to win my first election without reading the manual- I did have it on the easiest gameplay setting. This is a great game for political junkies! There are a variety of issues you can take a stance on, a full campaign, and they promise new downloadable Be sure you have a firm grasp on common-sense politics. I picked up and understood this game within the first 30 minutes, and went on to win my first election without reading the manual- I did have it on the easiest gameplay setting. This is a great game for political junkies! There are a variety of issues you can take a stance on, a full campaign, and they promise new downloadable content. You can easily make a new candidate or play a fantasy game where you alter the demographic settings. Highly recommended to anyone who likes strategy games or politics!… Expand

Awards & Rankings

95
#95 Best PC Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
72

Mixed or average reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 21
  3. Negative: 2 out of 21
  1. netjak
    72
    A very well crafted game with great balance and a surprisingly large strategic depth. It offers a long enough gameplay to last well beyond the 2004 Presidential election, and because of the lack of violence and sex, it is accessible to people of all ages.
  2. PC Gamer
    73
    It may not be the most authentic simulation of American politics, but Political Machine does have some educational value in helping you understand the nitty-gritty of how 270 Electoral Collage votes are cobbled together. [Dec 2004, p.96]
  3. GameZone
    75
    Offers up a truly unique experience that is both fun and informative. Give it a try if you’re interested in fun or learning.
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