Empires of the Middle Ages (1980) Board Game

Empires of the Middle Ages is a classic board game released in 1980 that allows players to simulate the rise and fall of medieval empires. Designed by Anthony F. Buccini, Jim Dunnigan, and Redmond A. Simonsen, the game offers a deep dive into medieval politics, economics, and warfare. With stunning artwork by Morgan Crusader Bible, Redmond A. Simonsen, and Joe Youst, this game is a must-have for history buffs and strategy game enthusiasts.

Game Components of Empires of the Middle Ages

Game board depicting a map of medieval Europe

Rulebook with detailed instructions

Player tokens representing different empires

Resource cards for managing economy and military

Event cards that can influence gameplay

How To Setup Empires of the Middle Ages

Lay out the game board on a flat surface

Distribute player tokens to each player

Shuffle the resource and event cards

Determine starting resources and territory for each player

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns managing their empires, making decisions on resource allocation, diplomacy, and military strategy. The ultimate goal is to expand your empire, accumulate wealth, and maintain power while navigating the turbulent waters of medieval politics.

Player Experience

Pros:

Deep strategic gameplay that offers plenty of replay value

Historical accuracy and thematic immersion

Engaging mechanics that keep players on their toes

Cons:

Steep learning curve that may intimidate new players

Lengthy playtime that may not be suitable for casual gaming sessions

Personal Thoughts on Empires of the Middle Ages

Empires of the Middle Ages is a game that appeals to history enthusiasts and fans of complex strategy games. While the learning curve may be daunting for newcomers, the depth of gameplay and thematic immersion make it a rewarding experience for dedicated players. The game’s build quality is solid, and its category as a civilization and wargame offers a unique experience for those interested in medieval history. Pricing and availability for both used and new copies may vary, but for those willing to invest the time and effort, Empires of the Middle Ages is definitely worth checking out. However, casual gamers or those looking for a quick gaming fix may want to skip this one.

Overall, Empires of the Middle Ages is a gem for strategy game enthusiasts looking for a challenging and immersive experience in the world of medieval empires.

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.