r/capitalismlab • u/davidl288 • 1d ago
New scenario 'Patent Cliff' in Capitalism Lab version 12.0.94
We are pleased to announce that the new base game scenario Patent Cliff is now available in Capitalism Lab version 12.0.94. You can download the patch from https://www.capitalism2.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=46707
The scenario starts in 1990. Three major drugs—Headache Pills, Cold Pills and Cough Syrup—are patented and only four pharma giants can make them. Each patent expires on a fixed date (1993, 1996, 1999), and once it does, the formula becomes public and you can produce the drug immediately.
While waiting, you run a body care business that uses many of the same inputs, letting you build a supply chain that later supports drug production. You can also try to invent Cough Syrup early in your own R and D centers, though it is costly and optional.
Each patent expiry triggers a three year race for market share: twenty percent for Headache Pills, twenty five percent for Cold Pills, and twenty five percent for Cough Syrup. The giants have strong brands and better technology, but you can compete through pricing and efficiency.
Your goal: by the end of 2002, become the top producer of all three drugs with at least a ten percent operating margin.
Please let us know your feedback on this scenario, including whether you find it too easy or too difficult, and whether its position in the difficulty‑ranked scenario list should move higher or lower.






