Lords of Heaven
Lords of Heaven at your next game night?
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- Designer Aleksander Jagodziński
- Publisher PHALANX
- Illustration Aleksander Jagodziński
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You command one of four asymmetric factions (Latin Crusaders, Byzantine Empire, Fatimid Caliphate, or Seljuks) and vie for supremacy in the Middle East. The game blends Area Majority/Influence, Area Movement and Card Play Conflict Resolution: play action cards to build units, fortresses and temples, move troops and fight battles. Negotiation, Alliances and semi-cooperative dynamics between Christian and Islamic blocs shape the political gameplay. The game includes short scenarios and a campaign that revisit the first Crusades.
Who Is This Game For?
A game for experienced players and history fans: age 14+ and a duration of about 120 minutes point to a medium-high complexity title. Good familiarity with area-control and hand-management mechanics helps. Not primarily targeted at casual family groups seeking short sessions.
How It Works
Rounds revolve around playing action/event cards (Card Play Conflict Resolution) and managing your hand (Hand Management). Players move forces across the map (Area Movement) to influence regions (Area Majority/Influence), negotiate or bid for advantages (Negotiation, Auction/Bidding), and form temporary alliances. Worker Placement with different worker types adds tactical choices. Scenarios and a campaign provide structured play across multiple sessions.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Aleksander Jagodziński, Lords of Heaven integrates asymmetric faction play with negotiation and semi-cooperative mechanics in a Crusades-era setting. Its inclusion in families such as Cities: Jerusalem and History: Crusades highlights the clear historical focus. The negotiation and alliance mechanics distinguish its political dimension.
Pro
- Asymmetric factions provide varied playstyles (designer: Aleksander Jagodziński).
- Blend of Area Majority/Influence, Card Play Conflict Resolution and Negotiation.
- Semi-cooperative/Alliances dynamics add political depth.
- Scenarios plus a campaign structure multiple sessions.
Contra
- Approximately 120 minutes per game requires time commitment.
- Asymmetry and mechanics need learning time for newcomers.
- Age 14+ makes it less suitable for younger family groups.
Setting & atmosphere
Set in the medieval Middle East with a focus on Jerusalem and the early Crusades. Categories like Medieval, Religious and Wargame inform theme and scenarios.
Tips for beginners
Start with the short scenarios to learn faction asymmetries before attempting the full campaign; focus first on core actions and movement.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No. The game is designed for 2–4 players; a solo mode is not indicated.
How long does a game really take?
Suggested duration is about 120 minutes; allow extra time for setup and rule explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with area-control, hand-management and asymmetric games is helpful; expect an initial learning curve.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines area-control with negotiation and semi-cooperative elements, emphasizing political alliances in a Crusades setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Given the 14+ age recommendation and game complexity, it's better suited to gamers and families with older teens.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Area Majority/Influence with Negotiation and Card Play Conflict Resolution defines its unique feel.
Fazit
Lords of Heaven suits players who enjoy asymmetric historical conflicts and negotiation-heavy play. If you prefer shorter, lighter games, consider the game's 120-minute length and its complexity.
Lords of Heaven at your next game night?
Add Lords of Heaven to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Lords of Heaven to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
