Virgin Queen
- Designer Ed Beach
- Publisher GMT Games , Spielworxx , Banana Games
- Illustration Charles Kibler , Rodger B. MacGowan , Mark Mahaffey , Mark Simonitch
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Virgin Queen, 2 to 6 players control major European powers from 1559 to 1598, navigating military, political, and religious conflicts. The game involves negotiation, campaign-driven battles, and strategic decision-making in a deep simulation. Players manage Spain's empire, Protestant rebellions, and shifting alliances through lengthy sessions of around eight hours.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for experienced gamers and wargame enthusiasts, Virgin Queen suits players who enjoy deep, campaign-based grand strategy games. With a minimum age of 12 and a long playtime, it requires patience and some familiarity with complex rules and historical settings.
How It Works
The game uses campaign and battle cards to drive the flow, combined with point-to-point troop movement and dice rolling for combat resolution. Variable phase order and player powers add strategic depth, while negotiation and political actions influence the course of the Wars of Religion.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ed Beach as a sequel to Here I Stand, Virgin Queen features variable player powers and campaign cards. It was nominated in 2012 for the Charles S. Roberts Award and Golden Geek Best Wargame, standing out for its blend of grand strategy and religious-political themes.
Awards
2012
- 2012 Charles S. Roberts Best Ancient to Napoleonic Era Board Wargame — Nominated
Pro
- Deep simulation of historical religious conflicts
- Variable phase order and player powers increase strategic options
- Supports up to six players for large groups
- Nominated for Charles S. Roberts Award and Golden Geek Best Wargame 2012
Contra
- Very long playtime of approximately eight hours
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- Minimum age of 12 requires some maturity
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Europe during the Wars of Religion from 1559 to 1598, focusing on England under Elizabeth I, Spain, France, the Netherlands, the Ottoman Empire, and the Holy Roman Empire.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the rules thoroughly and consider starting with smaller scenarios before the full campaign.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Virgin Queen is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A full campaign takes about eight hours, requiring extended play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and long strategy games is recommended due to the game's complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
Virgin Queen is the sequel to Here I Stand, featuring variable phase orders and political negotiation in a historical setting.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 12 and high complexity, it is better suited for experienced players than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of campaign/battle card driving, variable phase order, and variable player powers defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Virgin Queen is recommended for players seeking a historically rich and complex wargame experience. Its long duration and depth require commitment and strategic focus.



















