by drmark64
Just for clarity. Here is the rule:1.5.1 Negotiation. Players may make any mutual arrangements
within the rules but may voluntarily transfer only Resources (1.7)
or Shipments (4.5.3). All negotiations are open. The rules do not
bind players to agreements.
within the rules but may voluntarily transfer only Resources (1.7)
or Shipments (4.5.3). All negotiations are open. The rules do not
bind players to agreements.
So you are correct in your assessment. The group dynamic being what it is would allow a player(s) to essentially ruin the game. It happens.
I have fallen victim to that several times in other games. Anyways there is only so much the game designer can do.
Ultimately there can only be one winner so if all players are attempting to win the game then the game works. If one player has ceased trying to win the game then it falls to the 'Kingmaker Effect', where the player not trying to win essentially selects the winner. There is not too much that can be done about this, it is all about sportsmanship. Using 'Kingmaker Effect' is essentially poor sportsmanship.