We spend a lot of time discussing games but not enough time discussing how games teach.  As a librarian I believe games deserve a prominent place in libraries, and in education overall, because they not only entertain but educate.

Oiligarchy by Molleindustria is one such game that entertains and educates at the same time.  Molleindustria has created a slew of games that teach us while we have fun.  Some challenge social norms, some promote certain ideological agendas, and all inform us.  This particular game is very enjoyable for a number of reasons. First and foremost it is easy to grasp but difficult to master. It puts you in control of an oil company where you explore, drill, lobby government, and interact with other nations.  Underneath all of this is some very real science.  This science is visually shown with the below prototype for Oiligarchy.

After you try the prototype give the real game a shot.  Since I like the game so much I thought I’d share it with all of you. Please play the game, below, as much as you want. It is FREE!