Lancaster

Queen Games · Board game · 2011
2–5 · best 4 60 min Weight 3.0/5
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Buy
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love political intrigue and influence struggles on a map. The piece replacement system in the counties creates great tension!

Highlights
  • Very dynamic influence struggle
  • Highly immersive medieval theme
  • Parliamentary voting adds depth
  • High-quality Queen Games components
Keep in mind
  • Moderate learning curve
  • Interaction can be aggressive
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Dust off your finest nobility attire and sharpen your sword, because in Lancaster, being just another lord simply won't cut it. The year is 1413, and King Henry V has ambitious goals: unifying England and potentially seizing the French crown. To achieve this, he needs powerful allies, and that's where you come in. The objective is straightforward but the execution is pure political intrigue: become the king's most influential ally to accumulate the most power points.

The game revolves around the management of your knights. You'll deploy them strategically across three main fronts. First, in the English counties, where the fight for rewards and noble favors is fierce; here, raw strength matters, and you can displace an opponent's knight if yours is stronger. Second, at your own castle, where you handle logistics, securing income or recruiting new warriors for your cause. And third, in the conflicts against France, where all players collaborate to gain points, though the competition over who contributed the most remains intense.

But don't think it's all about brute force. The Parliament is where the game truly shifts. You'll have to maneuver and vote on laws that benefit your family and, preferably, hinder your rivals. It's a tug-of-war where every placement decision can shift your influence. If you enjoy the atmosphere of medieval power struggles, mixed with a bit of diplomacy and tight resource management, Lancaster delivers this experience in an elegant and challenging way. Who will manage to climb the social ladder and end the game as the king's right-hand man?
Expansions
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Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
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Game details

Categories

Families

Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Country: England Series: Yellow Wave Box (Queen)
Publisher Queen Games
Designer Matthias Cramer
Artist Claus Stephan, Martin Hoffmann
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex?
It has a medium weight (nearly 3/5). It's not a gateway game, but nothing impossible. If you've played worker placement games, you'll pick it up quickly.
How long does a game take?
It usually lasts about 60 minutes, being quite streamlined for the depth it offers.
Does it work well with 2 players?
Yes, but the voting dynamics and area fighting become much more chaotic and fun with 4 or 5 people.
Is the France part cooperative?
Not exactly. While everyone contributes to the war against France, the ultimate goal is individual: the one with the most power points wins.
Who do you recommend this game for?
For those who enjoy 'Euro' strategy games with direct interaction and a love for historical and political themes.