The game models the economic business of mining tin and gaining profit by transporting it to markets.

The "million" in the game's title refers to the target profit players must reach.

This money can be used to pay for more transport (lorries, barges and ships) and a second mine derrick (to increase production).

Finally the players begin to transport the production units across the sea by either barges, more slowly around the coast or more quickly by ships.

Across the sea at Race Bay, St. John’s or Port Boston units can be sold for dollars.

The objective is to make one million dollars by selling units in the neighbouring landmass containing three ports.

Barges are slightly slower and considerably more expensive than lorries, but have the advantage that they can carry five units (at least two of which must be the player's own).

Additionally barges can make the trip across the sea to the neighbouring continent where units may be sold for dollars, although they must take the circuitous coastal route.

They are also considerably more expensive, and incapable of travelling inland to the mines; instead players must first transport their units to the central warehouse, from where ships can begin their journey.

Aside from the rebranding, the only difference was that 'The Business Game' came in a smaller box, and the board was folded into thirds rather than in half.