Coup d'etat (1966)

The origin of Coup d'Etat is obscure, but it is believed that the game was first played by political prisoners in the dungeons of France over two centuries ago. Even the old game was highly interesting, but the new one with its "COUP" and "HIDDEN COUP" overthrow is a fascinating new concept and has a spearpoint challenge for game-lovers looking for something different.

See also Barbu & Dragonmaster.

Although there is paper money and the 'winning condition' is the player with the most money, Coup d'Etat is essentially a card game.
Three or 4 players go through several rounds (equal to the number of players). In each round every one of 6 games is played one-at-a-time.
To begin, one player is chosen as the King. This player will decide which mini-game is played and collects the monies that are paid by other players as penalties for missing certain objectives of each mini-game. All cards are dealt (except in the 3 player version) and there is a single COUP card. If a player is dealt the Coup card she has the option to try to overthrow the king; taking on the role of King for furture play and acquiring all the money previously collected by the king. The Coup card is a wild card in all but one of the mini-games. The player who decides to attempt a Coup, also, can choose the mini-game that best suits her current hand (from those not yet played in this round).
A successful coup, however, is very difficult because all other players are trying to foil it. They will be forced to pay a steep penalty - to the player with the Coup card - if the coup is successful.
This game is a great deal of fun and includes a lot of 'friendly' cut-throat action!