In the Shadow of the Emperor

Sometimes I’m reluctant to try new games. I find that I don’t learn a game by reading the manual, and I have a better grasp of what I’m supposed to do if I see it played and it’s described in gaming terms I’m already familiar with. Still, it’s the little twists on established mechanics and the subtle strategies that can make all the difference.

In the Shadow of the Emperor could be described as El Grande meets the more diplomatic aspects of Twilight Imperium. The game takes place right at the end of medieval Germany, and the players are various houses competing to control areas of the land. Every round, players place cities, dukes, or knights in the various territories. After players are done, electors are chosen and players gain control of an area’s special ability and that area’s vote for Emperor. Challenges by a Rival for the seat of Emperor can happen every round, but are not required. The Emperor has certain privileges and has an easier time controlling some territories. Play continues for five rounds and the winner is merely the player with the most victory points.



It’s an interesting exercise in late medieval politicking, with an emphasis on constant conflict, rather than taking and holding a given area. Stagnation only serves to deny your opponents points, rather than take them for yourself. Players are rewarded for taking territories and voting for the winner in an Imperial election. The player’s dukes and couples are subject to aging, making a player’s pieces not as permanent as in other games. Players are constantly replacing their dead dukes and couples and this serves to keep the game interesting throughout the five rounds of play. There are also very few random elements to the game, as players the only determination for the events surrounding play.

In the Shadow of the Emperor successfully combines several complimentary mechanics into a fun little package. I’d say the only knock against the game is that it’s not too replayable, so care must be taken not to get burned out on it too fast. I could possibly see future expansions in the same vein as Power Grid, with new maps and different areas. On its own, this is a solid game that’s worth your attention.