Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you enjoy light strategy games focused on set collection and card interactions, Monarch is a great choice for your game night!
Highlights
- Light and accessible strategy
- Clever set collection
- Interesting card interaction
- Replayability with modular board
- Engaging theme
Keep in mind
- Can feel a bit repetitive
- Limited direct interaction
- Relies on card combos
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
In Monarch, you and your sisters are in a race to inherit the throne, as the Queen Mother is about to pass on the crown. The challenge is to demonstrate who possesses the most intelligence, compassion, bravery, and strength to lead the kingdom. Your mission is to outperform your rivals, proving your ingenuity and power. To do this, you must adopt strategies that ensure the prosperity of the land and the glory of your court, as well as protect the realm from threats and famine. Only the sister who assembles the most majestic court will be crowned the next Monarch.
Monarch is a light strategy game, ideal for 2 to 4 players, with games lasting about 45 minutes. The core mechanic revolves around set collection: each of the sisters seeks to assemble an impressive court, composed of wise advisors, exotic animals, and symbolic regalia. Each of these court cards grants crowns, and the player who accumulates the most crowns at the end of the game becomes the new Queen.
But don't think it's just about collecting! There are tricks and strategies to assemble a truly majestic court. Some cards may not work well together – for example, the Astronomer is worthless if in the same court as Fireworks, as he won't be able to see the stars! On the other hand, some cards combine perfectly, like the Beastkeeper, who is worth more crowns for each animal she has in her court. Pay attention to the synergies and conflicts between cards to optimize your score and secure your place on the throne!
Monarch is a light strategy game, ideal for 2 to 4 players, with games lasting about 45 minutes. The core mechanic revolves around set collection: each of the sisters seeks to assemble an impressive court, composed of wise advisors, exotic animals, and symbolic regalia. Each of these court cards grants crowns, and the player who accumulates the most crowns at the end of the game becomes the new Queen.
But don't think it's just about collecting! There are tricks and strategies to assemble a truly majestic court. Some cards may not work well together – for example, the Astronomer is worthless if in the same court as Fireworks, as he won't be able to see the stars! On the other hand, some cards combine perfectly, like the Beastkeeper, who is worth more crowns for each animal she has in her court. Pay attention to the synergies and conflicts between cards to optimize your score and secure your place on the throne!
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
REC
3
REC
4
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Mary Flanagan LLC, Resonym
Designer
Mary Flanagan, Max Seidman, Zara Downs
Artist
Kate Adams, Sarah Ettinger
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,818owners
349wishlist
44want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can participate in Monarch?
Monarch is a light strategy game designed for 2 to 4 players, making it great for small groups or a family game night.
What is the average playtime for a game of Monarch?
A game of Monarch typically takes about 45 minutes. It's an ideal length for those looking for a strategic experience without committing too much time.
What is the complexity level of Monarch?
Monarch is considered a light strategy game, with a BGG weight of 1.68/5. It's easy to learn but offers enough depth for players who enjoy thinking about their moves and combos.
What are the main objectives in the game?
The main goal is to assemble the most majestic court by collecting cards representing advisors, animals, and regalia. The player with the most crowns at the end of the game is the winner and the new Queen!
Does Monarch have a lot of player interaction?
The primary interaction in Monarch comes from open drafting of cards and observing what your opponents are collecting to try and block them or optimize your own plays. There isn't much direct attacking interaction.
Who is Monarch recommended for?
Monarch is recommended for those who enjoy light strategy games with a focus on set collection and card combos. It's perfect for families and groups of friends looking for a fun and accessible game with a touch of planning.
Do I need prior English knowledge to play Monarch?
Ludopedia indicates a moderate language dependency, suggesting that a translated spreadsheet or cards might be helpful for those unfamiliar with English, although the text on the cards is not excessive.
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