Justinian (2006) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Justinian is a board game released in 2006, designed by Leo Colovini and Alessandro Saragosa. The game is set in Medieval times and focuses on negotiation and political strategies. It is published by Mayfair Games and is recommended for players aged 10 and above. The game features betting and bluffing mechanics, making it a challenging and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Justinian

Game board showing the court of Emperor Justinian

12 character tiles representing counselors

Influence tokens

Bribe tokens

Player boards

How To Setup Justinian

To set up the game, place the game board in the middle of the playing area, which depicts the court of Emperor Justinian. Distribute the 12 character tiles on the board to show the positions of each counselor. Each player receives a player board and the necessary tokens for influencing and bribing the counselors.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Players aim to gain the sympathy of Emperor Justinian by influencing his counselors.

Area Influence: Players place influence tokens to control areas of the court.

Bidding: Players use tokens to bid for the favors of counselors.

Negotiation: Players can negotiate and form alliances to achieve their goals.

Secret Influence: Players secretly influence the emperor’s counselors to further their aims.

Player Experience

In Justinian, players are immersed in the intrigue of the imperial court, navigating the complex web of influence and alliances. Each turn, players must strategically decide where to place their influence tokens and how to use their bribe tokens effectively. The game requires a blend of short-term tactical thinking and long-term strategic planning, making it engaging for players who enjoy intricate social interactions and strategic depth.

Pros

Deep Strategic Play: Offers complex and engaging gameplay mechanics.

Social Interaction: Encourages negotiation and alliances among players.

Historical Theme: Set in the court of Emperor Justinian, providing a unique historical context.

Replayability: High replay value due to variable setup and player interactions.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the intricate mechanics.

Length: Games can be lengthy, requiring a significant time commitment.

Luck Factor: Bidding and negotiation can introduce elements of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Justinian

Justinian is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a strong focus on social interaction and area control. It is best suited for experienced gamers who can appreciate the depth and complexity of the game mechanics. For those interested in historical themes and the intricacies of court politics, Justinian offers a unique and engaging experience. However, it may not be the best choice for casual or beginner players due to its complexity and length.

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.