Barbarian Kingdoms

About this board game

Barbarian Kingdoms is an asymmetrical competitive strategy game for 2–6 players, with an approximate play time of 90 minutes. Set during the twilight of antiquity, it places players in control of nascent kingdoms competing for supremacy across Western Europe.

As the Hun horde sweeps across Europe, Germanic tribes are forced into exodus and spread within the borders of the Western Empire. Through looting and war, these so-called barbarian nations establish kingdoms on former imperial territory—and each player must carefully expand their own power.

On every turn, a player chooses and resolves one action. The available options shape the kingdom’s economy, military strength, and position on the map:

• Recruitment: Pay a cost to deploy a warrior from the reserve.
• Taxation: Collect money from provinces in your kingdom.
• Assault: Invade a province or attack an enemy unit.
• Maneuvers: Reposition units within provinces or move them toward the sea.
• Claim: Attempt to take control of a province by paying a cost.

Assault and claim actions can be immediately challenged by an opponent and resolved through battle. During a battle, a bribe may be paid to the opponent in an attempt to reverse the outcome, adding another layer of uncertainty to every confrontation.

Positioning is crucial, especially with the restriction of a maximum of one unit per province. Players must watch their opponents closely while making the most of two asymmetrical powers: the unique power of their kingdom and the power of their king.

Victory goes to the first player to control seven territories or eliminate two opposing kings. With competing objectives, direct challenges, and shifting opportunities for expansion, Barbarian Kingdoms combines tactical positioning with decisive political and military choices.