In Council of Four, you step into the shoes of a shrewd merchant aiming to make your mark on a prosperous Empire, divided into three Kingdoms. Each Kingdom is governed by a council of four nobles, representing six influential families. Your goal is to acquire permits to build your Emporiums in the most strategic cities, accumulating fame and fortune.

The game revolves around clever actions: you can "corrupt" the councils, which earns you permit cards with immediate or end-game benefits, and the chance to erect your Emporium in a specific city. Building an Emporium not only grants you advantages from its location but also triggers a chain reaction with other Emporiums you've already built, connecting your trade network. Keep an eye on the Emperor, as he can grant you free passage to build without permits, a huge boon to speed up your plans. Plus, you can even alter the council's composition to your advantage!

The ways to score points are diverse: building Emporiums in cities that award points, dominating entire areas of the board (the faster, the better!), and advancing on the nobility track. With a modular board offering various combinations, each game promises a fresh challenge. It's a game that demands planning, a bit of bluffing, and a lot of foresight to build the most profitable trade network.

Council of Four is a great choice for those who enjoy economic games with a touch of network building and point-to-point movement. It's accessible enough not to scare off newcomers but offers enough depth to please experienced players.