Imperial Settlers

Portal Games, Arclight Games, Edge Entertainment · Board game · 2014
1–4 · best 2 Solo 45–90 min Weight 2.8/5
rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're a fan of engine-building card games with a strong civilization theme and direct player interaction, Imperial Settlers offers a satisfying experience. Its unique faction abilities and resource management make for engaging strategic play.

Highlights
  • Asymmetrical factions offer diverse strategies
  • Satisfying engine-building and resource management
  • Engaging card play with multiple uses
  • Direct player interaction through raiding
Keep in mind
  • Can feel a bit "multiplayer solitaire"
  • Learning curve for faction unique abilities
RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
Access Rules Guide
About the game
In 'Imperial Settlers', you take command of one of four great civilizations – Romans, Barbarians, Egyptians, or Japanese – who have just discovered new lands teeming with resources and opportunities. The goal is to expand your empire by constructing buildings that strengthen your economy, establishing mines and fields to gather valuable resources, and erecting barracks to train your troops. The catch is that the territory is too small for everyone, and war is inevitable! This is a card game where each player leads their faction, building an empire by allocating constructions and then assigning workers to these structures. This allows you to acquire new resources and unlock unique abilities, all to accumulate victory points. The game unfolds over five intense rounds, where you'll have to make strategic decisions about how to explore new lands, which buildings to erect, how to trade resources, and when to conquer enemy territories. The core mechanism of 'Imperial Settlers' is inspired by concepts from the acclaimed card game '51st State', by the same author, which already hints at the strategic depth you'll find. Get ready to manage your resources, plan your constructions, and, of course, prepare for the conflicts to come!
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Imperial Settlers English · PDF
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BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 BEST
3 REC
4 OK
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Game details

Families

Ancient: Egypt Ancient: Rome Components: Multi-Use Cards Country: Japan Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: Tabletopia
Publisher Portal Games, Arclight Games, Edge Entertainment, FunBox Jogos, Gémklub, MYBG Co., Ltd.
Designer Ignacy Trzewiczek
Artist Jarosław Marcinek, Mateusz Bielski, Rafał Szyma, Tomasz Jedruszek
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play Imperial Settlers?
The game supports 1 to 4 players. Yes, it has a solo mode, which is great for practicing your strategies or when your gaming group isn't available!
What is the average playtime for a game?
An average game of Imperial Settlers typically lasts between 45 to 90 minutes. The time varies a bit with the number of players and everyone's familiarity with the rules.
What is the complexity level of the game?
With a BGG weight of 2.78/5, it's considered medium complexity. It's not a super simple 'filler', but it's also not a brain-burning 'eurogame'. Ideal for those seeking a strategic challenge without being exhausting.
What are the main components of the game?
The game is primarily card-driven, featuring hundreds of cards representing buildings, resources, and actions. Additionally, it comes with wooden tokens for resources and victory points, and worker pawns.
Who is Imperial Settlers recommended for?
It's perfect for those who enjoy engine-building games, hand management, and asymmetric strategies. If you like the idea of developing your civilization and optimizing resource production, you'll love it!
Does the game have high language dependency?
Yes, the cards have text describing abilities and effects. While community translations exist, having the cards in your native language or a good reference is very helpful for smooth gameplay.