Löwenherz
- Designer Klaus Teuber
- Publisher Goldsieber Spiele , Rio Grande Games
- Illustration Andreas Steiner
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players compete as princes to dominate a kingdom by acquiring territory and building castles. Each round, players secretly bid to choose one of three actions, often leading to negotiations or duels when actions overlap. The modular board creates varied gameplay, while area control reminiscent of Go is central. Players build walls and train knights to defend their domains, making for intense territorial conflict.
Who Is This Game For?
Löwenherz targets experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy strategic depth and negotiation. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it requires patience and planning. Prior experience with auction and negotiation games is beneficial.
How It Works
Each turn, a card reveals three actions. Players secretly bid with cards numbered 1, 2, or 3 to claim one action. Since there are four players but only three actions, one player misses out. If multiple players select the same action, they negotiate or duel. The modular board consists of six tiles arranged in a grid where players build castles, walls, and train knights to control territory.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Klaus Teuber, Löwenherz won the 1997 Deutscher Spiele Preis for Best Family/Adult Game. It uniquely combines area majority, auctions, and negotiation on a modular board. Often seen as part of Teuber’s thematic trilogy with Entdecker and CATAN, it stands out for its negotiation and conflict mechanics.
Awards
1997
1997
- 1997 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game — Winner
- 1997 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- High player interaction through negotiation and duels
- Variable gameplay with modular board tiles
- Combination of area majority, auctions, and negotiation
- Winner of the 1997 Deutscher Spiele Preis
Contra
- Negotiations can extend game length
- Relatively complex for casual players
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a medieval kingdom, players act as rival princes striving for power and territorial control. The political and territorial tension defines the game’s atmosphere.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the action selection mechanism and be open to negotiation to resolve conflicts effectively.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Löwenherz is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, allowing for a moderately long session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is suited for experienced players aged 12 and up, with familiarity of auctions and negotiation helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Löwenherz uniquely blends auctions, negotiation, and area control on a modular board, setting it apart from typical worker-placement or area-control games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and negotiation mechanics, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its combination of auction, area majority, and intense negotiation defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Löwenherz is recommended for players who appreciate strategic conflict and negotiation, but it may not suit casual or family gamers without experience.
