Game of Thrones: The Card Game (2012) Board Game

Game of Thrones: The Card Game is a living card game based on the popular book series “A Song of Ice and Fire” by author George R. R. Martin. Published by Fantasy Flight Games in 2012, the game allows players to take on the roles of iconic characters from the series and engage in epic battles for control of the Iron Throne.

Game Components of Game of Thrones: The Card Game

Plot Deck: 7-card deck with plot cards that determine resources, initiative, and claim values.

Draw Deck: 60+ card deck containing characters, attachments, locations, and events.

Cards: Characters, attachments, locations, events, and plot cards, each with unique effects and traits.

Power Tokens: Used to track progress towards winning the game.

Title Figurines: Included in some sets, these are plastic figurines representing the houses.

How To Setup Game of Thrones: The Card Game

Players start by shuffling their draw decks and drawing the top 7 cards, with an option for a mulligan. Each player selects up to 5 gold worth of characters, locations, and attachments with the Setup keyword and places them face-down. Once all players are ready, these cards are revealed, and players draw cards until they each have 7 cards in their hand again. Each player also chooses a plot card to start the round.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Plot Cards: Determine gold, initiative, and claim values for each round.

Marshalling Phase: Players draw two cards and can play cards from their hands.

Challenge Phase: Players initiate challenges in military, intrigue, and power domains.

Military Challenges: Defender loses characters equal to the claim value.

Intrigue Challenges: Defender discards cards from hand equal to the claim value.

Power Challenges: Defender loses power tokens equal to the claim value.

Winning Condition: Earn 15 power tokens to win the game.

Player Experience

**Game of Thrones: The Card Game** offers a rich and strategic experience, allowing players to manage resources, initiate challenges, and outmaneuver their opponents. The game requires careful deck building and tactical play, making each match unique and engaging.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Complex gameplay mechanics offer a high level of strategic depth.

Replayability: Multiple houses and a wide range of cards ensure varied gameplay.

Balanced Decks: Core sets provide well-balanced decks for enjoyable gameplay.

Engaging Challenges: Military, intrigue, and power challenges add layers of strategy.

Cons

Complex Rules: Steep learning curve due to detailed rules and card interactions.

Deck Building Requirements: Players must manage card limits and synergies.

Time-Consuming Games: Matches can take over an hour, depending on play style.

Personal Thoughts on Game of Thrones: The Card Game

**Game of Thrones: The Card Game** is perfect for fans of the series and strategy card games. It’s ideal for players who enjoy deep, tactical gameplay and are willing to invest time in learning the rules and building effective decks. The game’s complexity makes it more suited for experienced card game players, but the reward is a highly engaging and strategic gaming experience.

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