For the Queen (2019) Board Game

For the Queen is a card-based storytelling game that was released in 2019 by Evil Hat Productions. Designed by Alex Roberts, the game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of loyal subjects on a journey to protect their queen. With its unique gameplay mechanics and immersive storytelling elements, For the Queen has gained popularity among fans of cooperative and narrative-driven games.

Game Components of For the Queen

Deck of Cards: A central deck containing prompt cards, including 46 cards for story development and 14 illustrated Queen cards.

X-Card: For removing triggering or unwanted content.

Rule Cards: The first 19 cards that outline the game’s rules.

Queen Cards: 14 gorgeously rendered illustrations of the Queen, each influencing the game’s tone and direction.

How To Setup For the Queen

To set up the game, players begin by reading aloud the first 19 cards, which detail the game’s rules. Each player then chooses a Queen card from the 14 available, which will represent their monarch throughout the game. This Queen card sits at the center of the table and significantly impacts the story’s direction. No game master is required, making the setup straightforward and accessible.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

GM-less Gameplay: No game master is needed; players take turns drawing cards and responding to prompts.

Prompt Cards: Players draw cards and answer questions about their characters, the Queen, and the journey.

Character Development: Characters are defined through their relationships with the Queen and each other as the game progresses.

Collaborative Storytelling: Players build the story together through their responses to the prompt cards.

X-Card Mechanic: Allows players to remove content they are uncomfortable with.

Final Prompt: The game ends with the question, “The Queen is under attack. Do you defend her?” which culminates the story and player decisions.

Player Experience

**For the Queen** offers a deeply immersive and emotional experience, focusing on themes of power, authority, femininity, love, loyalty, and betrayal. Players build intricate relationships with the Queen and each other through the questions posed by the prompt cards. The game encourages active listening and constant participation, making it engaging for both beginners and experienced role-players. The sessions are typically 30 minutes to 2 hours long, accommodating 2 to 6 players, though it has been played successfully with up to 8 players.

Pros

Accessible and Easy to Learn: Simple rules that can be understood quickly, even by those new to RPGs.

Deep Storytelling: The game fosters rich, emotional narratives through its prompt cards.

High Replayability: Each game session is unique due to the varied Queen cards and player responses.

Safety Tools: The X-Card mechanic ensures players can avoid triggering content.

Encourages Collaboration: Promotes active listening and constant player participation.

Cons

Limited Conflict Resolution Mechanics: The game relies heavily on narrative rather than traditional conflict resolution.

Dependence on Player Engagement: The quality of the game experience is highly dependent on the participation and creativity of the players.

Currently Discontinued: The first edition is no longer in print, though a second edition is available.

Personal Thoughts on For the Queen

**For the Queen** is ideal for those who enjoy narrative-driven games and are comfortable with improvisation. It is particularly suited for players interested in exploring complex relationships, power dynamics, and emotional storytelling. The game’s accessibility makes it a great introduction to RPGs for new players, while its depth and replayability will keep experienced players engaged. It works well with both children and adults, making it a versatile addition to any gaming group.

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