Game of Thrones

Introduction/Theme 
The game is settled in the world of Westeros, and is based on the well-known books by R. R. Martin - which have been also transferred into an awesome and successful TV-Series (already 3 seasons available). The board game really manages to create a great and exciting atmosphere (near to the original), where the famous Houses of Westeros are fighting for the Iron Throne - with weapons, with diplomacy and against the scary Wildlings. 

Components 

The box comes with long living, high-quality material. Beside a huge board (Map of Westeros), lots of simple miniatures (footmen, knights, ships and siege engines) are in there as well as cards and tokens and six nice player screens (used for secretly planning the next moves). The beautiful and improved design adds also to the atmospheric experience. 

Gameplay 

The game itself is split into 10 rounds, whereas the player wins who owns the most areas at the end. Each round consists of three phases:

1)      Westeros Phase - used for special events mainly, e.g. for managing the Wildling threat

2)      Planning Phase - each player assigns orders secretly (!) to his armies, alliances can be agreed on (but are never binding!)

3)      Action Phase - all orders are revealed simultaneously, movements & battles take place and are resolved

Battles are resolved with cards, therefore no luck is involved. In general you need to carefully plan which castles/areas to defend, how to handle area limits, how to most efficiently use your influence tokens, and very important: Which alliances make most sense at what time, and who can be trusted? 

Conclusion 

The 2nd edition comes not only with improved design and revised rules, but now contains the expansions which have had to be bought separately in the past. The game has strategic depth, has no luck involved, covers military conflict as well as diplomacy and alliances (and breaking them!) - and all of this in the well-known and beloved world of Westeros with their mighty Houses. You need to go through medium-complex rules, although most of them are clear and consistent after the first games. A very, very good game which ensures long time fun and excitement.

From the producer: King Robert Baratheon is dead, and the lands of Westeros brace for battle. Can you claim the Iron Throne? Designed for ages 14 and up, A Game of Thrones: The Board Game Second Edition is a classic game of warfare, diplomacy, and intrigue for three to six players. Taking control of the well-known characters from George R.R. Martin's beloved fantasy series, players must fight for dominance of the realm. Will you take power through force, coerce your way onto the throne with persuasive speeches, or rally the townsfolk to your side? With opportunities for strategic planning, masterful diplomacy, and clever card play, this game gives you a host of ways to spread your influence over Westeros.

3-6 players, 60 min
Designer: Christian T. Petersen
Published by: Heidelberger Spieleverlag, Fantasy Flight Games
Category: Fantasy, Wargame, Negotiation, Area Movement

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