Heads of State (2008) Board Game

Heads of State is a board game that was released in in 2008. It is designed by Peter Hawes and published by eggertspiele. The game is set in the Age of Reason and Renaissance period, focusing on political themes and strategies. Players take on the roles of powerful leaders trying to gain influence and control over various regions.

Game Components of Heads of State

200 cards: Sized 59 x 92mm, used for various actions and nobility titles.

Player boards: Each player has a chart to track their nobles and resources.

Markers: Used to mark control over areas on the board.

Cards for treachery and other actions: Representing different countries and actions like assassination attempts and the Spanish Inquisition.

How To Setup Heads of State

Setup involves each player receiving a player board and initial resources. The main deck of cards is shuffled, and a set number of cards are drawn and placed face-up for players to draft. The game board is set up to reflect the various areas and regions that players will compete over.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Majority / Influence: Players compete to control areas on the board.

Card Drafting: Players draft cards to obtain resources, nobles, and actions.

Hand Management: Players manage their cards to optimize their strategy.

Set Collection: Players collect sets of cards to create nobles and gain influence.

Objective: The goal is to amass the most prestige points by controlling areas, creating nobles, and accruing influence over three centuries.

Player Experience

Heads of State offers a complex and engaging experience, particularly for fans of German-style games and those who enjoy strategic depth. Players must navigate the intricacies of 16th-century European politics, dealing with the Church, assassinations, and other historical challenges. The game is designed for 2 to 5 players and typically lasts 90-120 minutes.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers a rich and complex gameplay experience with multiple paths to victory.

Historical Theme: Immerses players in the political and economic landscape of 16th-century Europe.

Replayability: High replayability due to the variable card drafting and area control mechanics.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to its intricate rules and mechanics.

Length: Games can be lengthy, taking up to two hours to complete.

Aesthetics: Some players find the game’s appearance less refined compared to its successor, Royals.

Personal Thoughts on Heads of State

Heads of State is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who appreciate complex strategies and historical themes. While it has been somewhat superseded by its more streamlined successor, Royals, it remains a great option for those looking for a more involved and challenging game. If you’re seeking a game with deep mechanics and are not deterred by a slightly older design, Heads of State is definitely worth considering. However, for those who prefer more streamlined gameplay, Royals might be a better fit.

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