The popular board game Settlers of Catan may seem like it is played out on the board, with players placing buildings and roads in specific places to gather resources and be the first to reach the target score. In truth, it is played out in the space above the board, when players negotiate trades with one another.
This is where a player’s success of failure is ultimately decided. Convince your fellow players to give you that needed brick in exchange for your sheep, and you pave the path to victory. If your negotiations fail, you’re likely going to find yourself at the bottom of the scoring ladder.