Men at Work

Objective

The goal of Men at Work is to work as a construction team to build the tallest and most stable structure while making the fewest safety violations, and earn the title of Worker of the Month. Players must manage both balance and risk by placing beams, girders, and workers, ensuring that the structure remains secure and stable.

Number of Players

• 2 to 5 players

Components

• 1 construction site plan
• 16 worker figures
• 28 beams (in three colors)
• 12 bricks
• 12 safety certificates
• 36 task cards
• 1 crane
• 1 high-rise worker of the month trophy

Setup

1. Shuffle the task cards and prepare them as a deck.
2. Place the beams and bricks at the center of the play area.
3. Each player receives 3 safety certificates.
4. The high-rise worker of the month trophy is placed to mark the current highest part of the building.

Gameplay

The game is played over several rounds where players take turns.

1. Draw a Task Card: The active player draws the top card from the task deck. This card will define which type of component and what task the player must perform (e.g., "Stack", "Balance", or "Carry").

2. Example: A card might require placing a purple beam on the third level.

3. Perform the Task: The player must carry out the required action and pay attention to the balance of the entire construction.

4. Update the Highest Construction Marker: If the highest point of the structure exceeds the previous elements after the turn, update the high-rise marker.

5. Lose a Safety Certificate: If the construction becomes unstable and pieces or workers fall, the player loses a safety certificate. Additional penalties occur if one or more workers fall.

6. Special Conditions: Some task cards require placing workers with a brick on their heads, adding extra dexterity challenges.

End of the Game

The game ends when a player loses all their safety certificates. The player with the most safety certificates wins and becomes the Worker of the Month. Alternatively, if the task deck is exhausted, the player with the most safety certificates wins.

Strategic Tips

• Risk Management: Consider carefully where you place components. A risky action might bring rewards, but could also lead to losing a safety certificate.
• Caution and Skill: Pay close attention to the structure's balance. Sometimes playing it safe is the better choice.
• Utilize Height: Since the tallest structure is rewarded, aiming for height can be a winning strategy.