Löwenherz
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 90 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.8 / 5
- Year
- 1997
About the game
Löwenherz casts players as medieval princes racing to claim territory as the king lies near death. Each round, a revealed card offers three possible actions, and players bid to claim them using numbered cards, with negotiation or duels resolving ties. Using castles, walls, and knights, you carve out and defend your own kingdom across a modular six-tile board that changes with every game. Designed by Catan creator Klaus Teuber, it's often considered the conflict-heavy capstone of his early thematic trilogy. Expect tense negotiation, clever territory grabs, and the occasional showdown.
Hobbli's Notes
We admire how Löwenherz channels Go-like territorial thinking into a distinctly medieval, negotiation-heavy euro. The action-selection auction creates constant friction, since someone always misses out on their preferred choice. It leans more conflict-driven and confrontational than Teuber's later Catan, appealing to players who enjoy a bit of edge in their euros. The modular board keeps every session feeling fresh despite the game's age.
What we like
- Clever action-bidding system creates constant tension over scarce choices.
- Modular board delivers a different territorial puzzle every game.
- Negotiation and occasional duels add memorable table drama.
- Designed by a genre legend with a distinctive, conflict-forward euro style.
Keep in mind
- Negotiation and duel resolution can slow the game down at times.
- Higher complexity and playtime may not suit lighter game nights.
- Out-of-print status may make it harder to find a copy.
Who it's for
Best for experienced euro gamers aged 12+ who enjoy area-control and negotiation-heavy conflict, ideally with a full table of 4.
