Imperial

About this board game

Welcome to the world of Imperial, a strategy board game that takes you back to the era of empires in the early 20th century. This game, designed by Mac Gerdts, is a unique blend of economic strategy, political maneuvering, and warfare.

In Imperial, you step into the shoes of an international investor, controlling various European powers to grow your wealth. The setting is as intriguing as the historical period it represents – the geopolitical landscape of Europe during the age of empires. You will find yourself immersed in a time of great nations vying for dominance and influence.

The core mechanics of Imperial involve managing finances, navigating politics, and conducting warfare. As an investor, your goal is to influence various nations to your advantage. You do not represent a particular nation, but instead, you control nations where you have the most investments. This is a unique aspect of the game that sets it apart from many others in the genre.

You must manage your investments wisely, using the funds to build factories, fleets, and armies for the nations you control. But be careful, as poor financial decisions can lead to a nation’s downfall, and subsequently, a decline in your fortunes.

Politics plays a crucial role in the game, as control over a nation can shift from player to player. The player with the most bonds in a nation becomes its controller and decides its actions. The ever-changing political landscape of Imperial offers a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay experience.

Warfare in Imperial is also a strategic endeavor. You can use your nations’ armies and fleets to engage in battles and expand your controlled territories. However, warfare also costs money, so every military action must be carefully planned and executed.

What makes Imperial unique is its focus on economic strategy rather than territorial control. The winner is not the player who controls the most territories, but the one who has amassed the most wealth by the end of the game. This refreshing take on the strategy board game genre offers a deep and engaging gameplay experience that will challenge and entertain players of all levels.