Carolus Magnus

Rio Grande Games, Venice Connection, Winning Moves Germany · Board game · 2000
2–4 · best 3 60 min Weight 2.6/5
7.1 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
7.1 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love territory control with a dash of luck, Carolus Magnus is your next board.

Highlights
  • Dynamic territory control
  • Blend of classic and innovative mechanics
  • Sturdy wooden components
  • Auction-based turn order adds tension
Keep in mind
  • Medium to high complexity
  • 60‑minute playtime
  • Hand‑management focus
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Carolus Magnus places you at the heart of territorial expansion in medieval France, where each player controls a wooden mercenary army. The board consists of small hexagons that join into a circle, forming the territories you will contest. Each mercenary block represents a type of army, and by placing it on a region you try to gain the majority of markers. When this happens, you can erect a tower, serving as a semi‑permanent control marker and, more importantly, the key piece for victory. If two territories controlled by the same player meet, they merge into a larger territory, making it harder for opponents to conquer. The auction‑based turn order adds strategic tension: at the start of each round, players bid resources to win the turn, influencing who moves first. Additionally, dice rolling introduces an element of randomness that can swing the game in your favor or against you. Hand management requires you to balance using blocks immediately or holding them for critical moments. The final goal is to place a predetermined number of towers or, if the number of remaining territories drops to three or fewer, have the most towers at the end. The game combines territory control, hand management, and auction decisions, offering a 60‑minute experience of pure medieval tension. Ideal for those who enjoy strategy games, area control, and auction mechanics, Carolus Magnus is a challenge that demands careful thought and constant attention to each move.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

3 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Wooden pieces & boards Country: France Digital Implementations: Yucata History: Francia
Publisher Rio Grande Games, Venice Connection, Winning Moves Germany
Designer Leo Colovini

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play?
2 to 4 players.
How long does a game last?
About 60 minutes.
What is the complexity level?
Medium to high complexity, suitable for players who enjoy strategy and planning.
What components are required?
Wooden pieces, mercenary blocks, wooden towers, modular board, and dice.
Is there a digital version?
Yes, there is an online implementation on Yucata.
How does turn order work?
Turn order is determined by resource auctions at the start of each round.
Who is this game recommended for?
Fans of medieval-themed territory control games that enjoy auction mechanics and hand management.

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