Hidden Agenda (1988 video game)

Hidden Agenda is a political simulation video game developed by Jim Gasperini and published by Springboard Software in 1988 for MS-DOS, Apple II, and Macintosh platforms. The game places the player in the role of a newly elected President of Chimerica, a fictional Central American country, following a period of intense political turmoil and foreign intervention.

The core gameplay of Hidden Agenda revolves around managing the nation's political, economic, and social policies. The player must appoint cabinet members, address domestic issues such as poverty and unrest, and navigate complex relationships with various factions, including the military, labor unions, landowners, and foreign powers like the United States and the Soviet Union (in the context of the Cold War).

The game is notable for its focus on political intrigue and decision-making, presenting players with difficult choices that have far-reaching consequences for the stability and future of Chimerica. Success depends on the player's ability to balance competing interests, maintain popular support, and avoid both internal coups and external interference.

Hidden Agenda is characterized by its text-based interface and branching narrative. The player interacts with the game world through menus and dialogues, with the narrative unfolding based on the player's actions and decisions. The game features multiple endings, reflecting the diverse paths the player can take in shaping the destiny of Chimerica.

While not a commercial blockbuster, Hidden Agenda is remembered for its innovative approach to political simulation and its exploration of complex political issues. It is considered a significant title in the genre and a thought-provoking examination of the challenges of leadership in a volatile political environment.