Not sure if this is a mechanics question or a prototyping question. Sorry if it is mis-categorized. I am looking for a money tracking system that helps with creating tension as the money dwindles down. I found at least one thread on a similar subject, but it was focused on separate player amounts. In my game about the Revolutionary War, the money situation is communal (a war chest)...everyone draws from it. However, I need something easy to constantly manipulate as each player "draws from the account" and also helps to create tension as it works its way to zero. If it reaches zero...game over...a loss.
I have definitely settled on a track arrangement over individual currency (paper, tokens, chits, etc.). What do think about putting a track around the perimeter of the board like a victory point track would normally be? What else? What other ways to track money are out there?
Thanks in advance for the responses.
The game is cooperative. The constant manipulation refers to the fact that there are replenishment phases and events that may add back as well. I am working in an "inflation" mechanic as well--forcing them to spend more in subsequent rounds for the same resources.
I will think more on the war chest idea. That was a good one.