Crown of Roses (2012) Board Game

Crown of Roses is a board game that was released in 2012 and is set in medieval times. The game was designed by Knut Grünitz, Charles Kibler, Rodger B. MacGowan, and Mark Simonitch, and published by GMT Games. It is categorized as a wargame, featuring elements of campaign and battle card-driven mechanics, dice rolling, secret unit deployment, and simulation.

Game Components of Crown of Roses

Game Board: Representing 15th Century England with area movement.

Blocks: Used to denote units with varying strength and experience levels.

Cards: Player action cards, command cards, and event cards.

Noble Cards: Representing influential nobles and their abilities.

Parliament Cards: For influencing and controlling parliamentary offices.

Dice: For resolving combat outcomes.

How To Setup Crown of Roses

Setup involves each player selecting a dynastic house (House of Lancaster, House of York, House of Stafford, or the powerful House of Neville) and placing their starting blocks and nobles on the board. Players draw a starting hand of cards, which will guide their initial actions. The game board is divided into areas, and each player must strategically position their blocks and influence markers to start the game effectively.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Block Game Mechanics: Blocks represent units with hidden strengths, creating a “fog of war” effect.

Card-Driven Mechanics: Players use cards to perform actions like improving armies, influencing locals, collecting supplies, and moving to attack enemy forces.

Combat System: A roll-to-hit system where better-experienced forces score hits more often in battle.

Game Objective: Players aim to achieve victory through military conquest, political control, or optionally, economic influence. Winning conditions include killing all enemy heirs, controlling 75% of the nobles on the board, or dominating economic power.

Player Experience

Playing **Crown of Roses** can be a complex and engaging experience. The game combines multiple mechanics, such as block game elements and card-driven actions, which can be daunting for new players. However, experienced players will appreciate the strategic depth and replayability. The game’s pace varies, with phases like influence and combat potentially slowing down the overall flow. Despite this, the game offers a rich historical feel and significant strategic challenges.

Pros

Historical Depth: Immersive setting during the Wars of the Roses.

Strategic Complexity: Multiple paths to victory and deep strategic gameplay.

Replayability: Variable unit starting locations and random game events ensure unique games each time.

Engaging Mechanics: Combination of block game and card-driven mechanics adds to the game’s excitement.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the blend of different mechanics.

Length: Game duration increases significantly with more players, which can make it lengthy.

Combat and Influence Phases: These phases can slow down the game, particularly if players are inexperienced.

Personal Thoughts on Crown of Roses

**Crown of Roses** is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complex, historically themed games. It is particularly suited for those fascinated by the Wars of the Roses and the intricacies of medieval politics and warfare. However, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those new to block games and card-driven mechanics due to its steep learning curve and potential for lengthy gameplay sessions.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.