Ortus Regni

Jon Sudbury Games · Board game · 2014
2 · best 2+ 20–50 min Weight 3.2/5
7.6 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy
7.6 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love deep strategy and want to feel the pressure of a political game, Ortus Regni is for you!

Highlights
  • Strategic deck building
  • Creative card combinations
  • Player elimination challenge
Keep in mind
  • Requires timer awareness
  • Deck assembly time
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ortus Regni puts you in the shoes of an Anglo‑Saxon earl during a time when England was still a patchwork of contested territories. Before each game you build your own deck—a deck‑construction process that demands strategic thinking and long‑term vision. Each card represents actions such as taking land, recruiting armies, or negotiating alliances, and the right combination can turn the tide. The player‑elimination mechanic adds extra tension: losing all your tokens or failing to maintain influence drops you out of the game. The political environment is intense, with intrigue that can be resolved through diplomacy or by destroying rival forces. Sand timers speed up decision‑making, while Viking cards remind players that war isn’t confined to the sea. The game was originally crowdfunded on Kickstarter and now has a digital version on Steam, but the physical experience remains the favorite for those who enjoy tactile cards. Ortus Regni is perfect for fans of deep strategy, planning, and adaptation, and who appreciate a well‑crafted historical setting.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
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Game details

Families

Admin: Better Description Needed! Components: Sand Timers Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Steam Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Jon Sudbury Games
Designer Jon Sudbury
Artist Benoit Billion
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
Two players only, as the game is specifically designed for duessel.
What is the typical game duration?
Between 20 and 50 minutes, depending on deck complexity and player aggression.
How long does it take to build the deck?
Generally 5 to 10 minutes, but it can vary if you experiment with more elaborate combinations.
What are the main components?
Cards, influence tokens, sand timers, and a symbolic territory board.
Is the game easy to learn?
Yes, the mechanics are simple, but mastering the strategic depth takes practice.
Who is this game recommended for?
Fans of strategic card games, political intrigue, and medieval history who enjoy a solid planning challenge.