Age of Conan: The Strategy Board Game*

Age of Conan: The Strategy Board Game transports players into the tumultuous world of the Hyborian Age, famously depicted in Robert E. Howard’s tales of Conan the Barbarian. Players vie for dominance over this ancient landscape by controlling one of four powerful kingdoms—Aquilonia, Turan, Hyperborea, and Stygia—utilizing military might, magical arts, and cunning diplomacy.

Gameplay Overview

• Kingdom Control: Players take command of one of the major kingdoms, each with unique strengths and strategic opportunities.
• Conan the Hero: While players compete against each other, they also vie for the favor and assistance of Conan himself, whose actions can greatly influence the course of the game.
• Three Ages of Play: The game is divided into three ages, each featuring a series of adventures that involve Conan. These adventures significantly impact the game's progression and the strategies of each player.

Strategic Elements

• Adventure and Bidding: At the start of each age, an adventure deck is formed from which Conan’s quests are drawn. Players bid to control Conan during these adventures, gaining the benefits of his heroic deeds.
• Fate Dice Mechanics: Actions are determined by fate dice, which create a common pool from which all players draw. The dice results dictate the available actions, adding an element of chance that requires flexible strategic planning.

Game Dynamics

• Resource Management and Development: Players must manage resources carefully, building armies and deploying emissaries to expand their influence and control over the map.
• Strategic Use of Conan: Winning bids to control Conan during adventures is crucial, as his involvement can tip the balance of power. Players must judiciously decide when to bid aggressively for his services.

Conclusion

Age of Conan: The Strategy Board Game offers a rich blend of strategic decision-making, resource management, and competitive gameplay, all set against the backdrop of the Hyborian Age’s epic lore. The unique integration of Conan as a semi-neutral force that can be swayed by bidding adds a compelling twist to the game, making it a standout choice for fans of strategy board games and the legendary tales of Conan the Barbarian. This game is ideal for those who enjoy deep, thematic games with a strong narrative component and complex player interactions.