Game of Thrones
$59.99
Game of Thrones at a Glance
| Game Type TV & Book Theme, Wargame, Fantasy, Bluffing, Negotiation, Area Majority / Influence, Area Movement, Auction/Bidding, Player Elimination, Variable Player Powers | Play Time 120 - 240 mins + | Skill/Complexity (4 - 5) Medium - Heavy |
| Age 14+ | Publisher(s) Fantasy Flight Games | Published 2003 - Latest 2011 + expansions (including 2018) |
| Categories Strategy / Fantasy | Players 4 - 6 (6 Ideal) | Cost $59.99 |
| Our Rating 9/10 | Instructions/Rules Official Rules PDF |
About – Description
The award-winning show ‘Game of thrones’ is just as popular in board game format with the game being created by Christian T. Peterson. The show and game originated from fantasy novels and the creator (George R. R. Martin) had the Game Of Thrones novel first published in 1996.
Game of Thrones is aimed at fans of the show and so, the general audience range from the age of 14 years and upwards. Players have to compete to take control of the iron throne through warfare and smart strategies.
Who’s it best suited for?
This is a game that is generally suited to those who like to take a strategic approach to games. The Game of Thrones board game is aimed at fans who have followed the show from day one.
It takes smart card play, planning and an influential approach to the game, so it is ideal for those who are in their later teenage years and upwards.
Skill – Complexity
This is considered to be a complex game due to the way in which players have to actively plan their moves and attacks. Players will have to tackle three phases of the game and so, this takes a level of confidence and skill to do so in a way that allows them to get the most from their experience of playing the game.
Players are given tokens, an army, house cards which are used as leaders in battles and many other components, making this a game that requires an intricate thought process and a tactful approach in order to succeed.
Set Up – Playing Rules & Instructions
The game is relatively time-consuming to set up and prepare but that is the whole experience of playing the game. As this is a game based on strategy there are many different components involved alongside the board.
Players can adopt a number of tactics to take over the throne and this includes force, words or through winning over the folk of the town. The game consists of three phases known as the Westeros Phase, the Planning Phase and the Action Phase.
The Westeros Phase involves day-to-day activities in Westeros while the planning phase is considered to be the most crucial part of the game. Players can give orders, work on betrayal and trust and immerse themselves in intense negotiations.
The players house that controls a Castle or Stronghold after the 10th game is completed is the winner. A player may also celebrate winning before the 10th game is up if they’re able to control seven of these areas, but this may not be quite as easy as you might think to achieve.
Other Versions, Editions or Expansions Available?
As expected, this is a show that has a wide reach and so, the board game has replicated this is an impressive way. The game is now on its second edition and it has been created for a wide range of markets including China, Russia, Italy, Bulgaria, Hungary and Portugal.
The game also has three expansions known as “A Dance with Dragons”, “ A Feast for Crows” and “Mother of Dragons (improves player counts below 6 people)”.
Likes & Dislikes
- Clearly, this is a game that has a number of followers and so, the general design and components are favored by many.
- Players focused on the fact that they enjoyed the way in which you have to adopt a number of tactics to succeed.
- Very well designed mechanisms with lots of negotiation and tactics required in play that fits well for a wargame. Backstabbing goes on a lot too…..very cut throat (this can be a dislike for some)!
- Many people did not like the elimination aspect of the game which ties in with the fact that many also found the game too long and was better played with six players.
- You really need four (you even need the expansion at this level) or more players to play and the length of play makes it hard to get the right group together.
Final Thoughts
The Game of Thrones board game that has been designed for fans of the show but also board game fans who like to embrace a new challenge and a game that is based around strategy.
This game has garnered quite the following and for those who love board games that include intricate components and a clever approach will love this.
