Gamervision: "The Political Machine 2008 is, at its core, a simulation of the 2008 election. Players are able to choose from dozens of stock political characters such as Barak Obama, John McCain, Hillary Clinton, and Mike Huckabee, as well being able to create their own character, all of which are represented as shiny bobble heads. If you're nodding off at the very thought of this game then you might as well turn back – this is for those already interested in the game of politics, and should please anyone interested in the slightest at the concept."
WorthPlaying writes: "The mass media has summed up the 2008 presidential race in a variety of fairly negative terms. While words like "acerbic" and "dirty" were certainly batted around, developer Stardock has attempted to add a few more favorable adjectives with its charming entry, The Political Machine 2008. Set during the frenetic 41-week run up to Nov. 4, the game allows you to step into the shoes of an aspiring presidential hopeful, take a firm stance on the issues, and throw your hat into the ring for the most important office in the land."
SBG:
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Beyond the standard mode, you also have the additional modes of playing in an 1860 American election where you may need to do some research to see who actually cares about tariffs and equality movements. Or you could play on a twisted European theatre version of the game or the equally ludicrous and hilarious alien Drengin Empire elections. All have their different skews, but ultimately are the same core set to different themes. Graphics and sound are appropriate for its 20 dollar price tag, but it is a vast improvement over the 2D representations of the first game.
The Political Machine 2008 unfortunately will be forgotten by the end of the year, which is a shame because it is a solid turn-based strategy game that has big potential to educate younger generations into how the political process actually works."
Thunderbolt: "It's an interesting concept given the competition, although The Political Machine 2008 isn't billed as a simulator, and will certainly entertain those tempted by the lower price point. You've a solid game that, whilst incredibly similar to its forerunner, brings the series up to date, especially in such a historic US election. Just don't expect too much deviation as every play-through is anything but a winding road."
