England, mid-19th century. Obsession begins with you as the head of a country house in ill repair; many rooms have been closed off to save on upkeep and heating, outside grounds are not manicured, and the façade in places is in desperate need of restoration.

It is far from the glory days of the estate, but you have new hope. A significant inheritance has made possible the restoration of the grand old estate and rehabilitation of the family's reputation.

In Obsession, your country estate is represented by a series of game tiles describing rooms and outdoor spaces that have been renovated. These renovations enable the family to host social activities—Fox Hunts, Music Recitals, Formal Dinners, Grand Balls—all the while enhancing your family's reputation in the county and unlocking special abilities.

Your family, which includes two eligible children—a dashing heir and refined young lady—begin to reenter good society, enhancing prospects for a favorable marriage.

Defend the family's honor against gossip and jealousy, accumulate wealth, expose unsavory characters who abuse the family's hospitality, and expand your staff of maids, valets, and footmen to meet the challenge of lavish social events. Do not neglect your service staff!

Hosting prestigious activities in your newly renovated manor house becomes the engine whereby you establish influential new connections, earning favors that can propel you to victory. Only after you've made the correct choices and strategic decisions to build up your estate is it possible to host the best and brightest of Derbyshire.