Imperial Settlers: Empires of the North
- Players
- 1-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 90 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 10+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.8 / 5
- Year
- 2019
About the game
Imperial Settlers: Empires of the North is a standalone card game set in a northern land inhabited by Scotsmen, Inuits, and Vikings. Each faction can be played with one of two unique pre-built decks, giving six distinct playstyles right out of the box. Players develop their economy, deflect rivals, and fight for dominance using hand management and worker placement. The goal is to build the strongest, most successful empire in the north.
Hobbli's Notes
This standalone spinoff trims down the original Imperial Settlers formula into something faster and more focused while keeping its satisfying card-driven engine building. The pre-built faction decks are a clever way to offer variety without deck construction, and the solo and two-player experiences are particularly strong. It's an easy recommendation for fans of the series or asymmetric card-tableau games generally.
What we like
- Asymmetric faction decks add significant replayability out of the box.
- Strong solo and two-player modes for a card-tableau game.
- Streamlined rules compared to the original Imperial Settlers.
- Satisfying engine-building rewards efficient card sequencing.
Keep in mind
- Take-that elements can frustrate players who dislike direct conflict.
- Expansions can make the card pool feel overwhelming over time.
- Some faction and deck combinations may feel stronger than others.
Who it's for
Fans of card-driven engine builders and asymmetric factions, playable solo or in groups of up to 4, ages 10 and up.
