Struggle of Empires
- Designer Martin Wallace
- Publisher Warfrog Games , Arclight Games , Eagle-Gryphon Games , Skellig Games , sternenschimmermeer
- Illustration Peter Dennis , João Tereso
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Struggle of Empires, you lead a major European power of the 18th century, building armies and fleets, forging alliances, and expanding your empire through war and colonization. The game features area movement, area majority influence, and bidding mechanics. Alliances formed during wars prevent backstabbing among allies, requiring careful diplomatic decisions. The risk of revolution adds another layer of strategic depth.
Who Is This Game For?
This game suits experienced players aged 13 and up who enjoy complex strategy games with long playtime (around 240 minutes). It is a medium to heavy strategy game requiring patience and prior experience with civilization-style games is helpful.
How It Works
Struggle of Empires uses mechanics like Alliances, Area Movement, Area Majority, Auction/Bidding, and Dice Rolling. Players move troops on a map, bid for improvement tiles, and form two alliances per war that prevent combat among allies. Dice resolve battles, and controlling areas depends on majority influence, creating a dynamic balance between cooperation and competition.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Martin Wallace, Struggle of Empires was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award in 2004 and the International Gamers Awards in 2005 for General Strategy (Multi-player). Its unique alliance system and historical 18th-century setting distinguish it from other empire-building games like Civilization and Age of Renaissance.
Awards
2005
- 2004 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Complex strategy game with historical depth
- Innovative alliance system preventing backstabbing
- Supports 2 to 7 players
- Nominated for Meeples Choice Award 2004 and International Gamers Awards 2005
Contra
- Very long playtime (about 240 minutes)
- Requires patience and strategic thinking
- Not suitable for casual players or families with younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the 18th century, the game revolves around European imperial expansion and wars for dominance in Europe and the colonies, focusing on colonialism, political alliances, and military conflicts.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on building stable alliances and understanding influence mechanics before attempting more complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Struggle of Empires is designed for 2 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 240 minutes, requiring an extended session for deep strategic planning.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a medium to heavy strategy game best suited for players familiar with civilization-style games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Struggle of Empires features a unique alliance system where allied players do not fight each other, avoiding classic backstabbing found in other games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its length and complexity, it is more appropriate for experienced players aged 13 and older rather than younger family members.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Alliances, Area Movement, Area Majority, and Auction/Bidding defines the game's strategic depth.
Fazit
Struggle of Empires is recommended for players seeking a long, challenging strategic game with political and military focus. Its complexity and length require patience and experience.
