In Game of Thrones: The Iron Throne, you and your friends take command of the Great Houses of Westeros, playing with iconic characters in epic battles and schemes. The game, which uses the Cosmic Encounter system, challenges you to negotiate, bluff, forge alliances, and even threaten your rivals to spread your influence and claim the coveted Iron Throne. Each round revolves around an encounter between two players, which can result in hostilities, surprising conquests, or the formation of temporary alliances. Although only two are the 'active players' in an encounter, others can offer their support, changing the course of the battle. These encounters are quick but full of opportunities for cunning strategies and betrayals. An encounter between Lannisters and Starks, for example, can escalate with the support of the Tyrells. But that's not all: there are schemes within schemes, bluffs, and hidden information as active players discuss the House cards they intend to play. They might be bluffing or even proposing a truce. If they opt for hostilities, they play cards to see who has more power. In case of a truce, they negotiate the terms of peace. In hostilities, one side wins and the other suffers the consequences, which can be loss of influence, hostages, or even the death of characters. The goal is to spread five of your influence onto opponents' House cards and claim the crown for yourself. Winning the right encounters – and knowing when to lose – is key to becoming the ruler of Westeros!