Soul of the Empire

Chara Games · Board game · 2018
2–4 · best 4 100–140 min Weight 3.3/5
rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy historical games with deep strategy and very different factions, Soul of the Empire is a great pick! The variety of powers and objectives ensures each game is a fresh challenge.

Highlights
  • Asymmetric and unique factions
  • Engaging historical theme
  • High tension and strategy
  • Combat with faction effects
Keep in mind
  • Moderate language dependency
  • Requires card reading
  • Initial learning curve
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Soul of the Empire transports you to the turbulent first century, where you'll command the might of one of four iconic factions: the mighty Roman Empire, the zealous Jews, the resilient Christians, or a Coalition of external peoples like Germanic tribes, Goths, and Parthians. Each group has its own unique objectives and advantages, making the experience highly asymmetric and full of twists. The game uses an action point system to dictate what you can do each turn, while combat is resolved deterministically but with faction effects that can change the game. Prepare to use thematic power decks and a point system that increases tension as you try to achieve your goals before your opponents. The theme explores the deep tensions and motivations of the different worldviews of the era: Rome at its peak, but struggling with internal divisions and external threats; the Jews defending their faith and chafing under Roman oppression; the Coalition fighting for survival against relentless expansion and hostile environments; and the Christians finding strength in adversity and purpose in persecution. It's a game that demands strategy, adaptation, and a good understanding of how each faction operates to achieve victory. With a playtime between 100 and 140 minutes, it's a deep immersion into a fascinating historical period, ideal for those who enjoy medium-weight games with plenty of strategic interaction. Language dependency is moderate, so having translated cards can greatly facilitate gameplay.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Crowdfunding: Kickstarter
Publisher Chara Games
Designer Heath Stockburn
Artist Kenneth Spond

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime for Soul of the Empire?
A game of Soul of the Empire typically lasts between 100 and 140 minutes, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules.
How many players is Soul of the Empire for?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, offering different experiences at each player count.
Is the game very complex? What is its weight?
Soul of the Empire has a medium weight (3.25/5 on BGG), meaning it has rules and strategies that require a good amount of dedication to master, but it's not excessively complicated.
Do I need to know English to play?
There is a moderate language dependency, mainly due to the cards. It's recommended to have a translated version of the cards or use a reference to facilitate gameplay.
What type of player is Soul of the Empire best suited for?
It's ideal for players who enjoy strategy games with historical themes, appreciate asymmetric mechanics, and don't mind some card reading and long-term planning.
What makes the factions 'asymmetric'?
The factions have completely different victory objectives, special abilities, and power decks from each other, which drastically changes how each one plays and interacts on the board.

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