Middle Kingdom*

Players bid blindly on dynasty cards such as warriors, nobles, bureaucrats, farmers, and merchants. They must balance their claims to score well, and the player with the most cards in a category receives a bonus that can influence the bidding process. In each round, players play bid cards to claim dynasty cards and gain control over key positions, but unexpected events can disrupt their strategies. The game concludes when the emperor dies, and the player with the most influence ascends to the throne.