Here I Stand: 500th Anniversary Edition

GMT Games, Banana Games, Devir · Board game · 2017
— Ludopedia 8.4 BGG 2–6 · best 6 180–360 min Weight 4.6/5
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— rating Ludopedia
8.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you love history and wargames that make you think and negotiate for hours on end, 'Here I Stand' is a feast! Get your group ready and book the weekend.

Highlights
  • Deep historical simulation
  • Engaging card system
  • High replayability
  • Deluxe components
Keep in mind
  • Long playtime
  • High complexity
  • Requires dedicated group
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Prepare for a deep dive into 16th-century Europe with 'Here I Stand: 500th Anniversary Edition'! This epic game places you at the heart of the political and religious conflicts that shaped the continent, covering a rich historical period where figures like Luther, Calvin, Henry VIII, and Charles V left their mark. With an innovative card-driven game system, you'll manage your actions, negotiate alliances, and strive for victory through different paths, depending on the power you represent. The 500th Anniversary Edition brings incredible enhancements, featuring new cards, revisions to existing cards for more dynamic gameplay, and even rule updates inspired by other games in the series. Expect countless hours of strategy and historical simulation, with a detailed map covering all of Europe and a point-to-point movement system that makes you feel the weight of every decision. This is a challenge that demands planning, diplomacy, and a good dose of luck with the dice. It's a game for those who love history, complex strategy, and aren't afraid to commit to a long and rewarding experience. If you're a fan of historically-focused wargames and have a dedicated group, 'Here I Stand' is a true masterpiece worth every minute invested.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

3 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 OK
5 REC
6 BEST

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Continents: Europe Country: France Country: Ottoman Empire Country: Papal States History: Age of Kings History: Classical Age of the Ottoman Empire History: Holy Roman Empire History: The Italian Wars Religious: Pope Religious: The Bible
Publisher GMT Games, Banana Games, Devir, Ergo Ludo Editions
Designer Ed Beach
Artist Mark Simonitch, Rodger B. MacGowan

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

3,429owners
1,068wishlist
196want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How long does a game take to play?
Be prepared, as a game can last from 3 to 6 hours, or even longer, depending on the number of players and your familiarity with the rules.
How many players is this game for?
It's designed for 2 to 6 players, but it truly shines with more people involved, where negotiation and alliances become even more interesting.
What is the complexity level?
The complexity is high. It's a dense game with many rules and interconnections, requiring dedication to learn and master.
What comes in the box?
The box is packed! You'll find several sheets of colorful counters, over 100 strategy cards, a large mounted map, player aids, and a rule/scenario book.
Who would you recommend this game to?
It's ideal for history buffs, especially those interested in the Protestant Reformation period, and for players who enjoy wargames with deep strategy, negotiation, and a lengthy challenge.
Do I need to know the previous game or others in the series?
It's not mandatory, but knowing other titles like 'Virgin Queen' might help in understanding some mechanics or updates incorporated here.
Is this game more focused on combat or politics/diplomacy?
It's a balance! Combat is important, but politics, diplomacy, and resource management (cards) are equally crucial for victory.

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