Ming Dynasty

About this board game

Ming Dynasty is a board game for 2–4 players, with an estimated playing time of 90 minutes, set during the rise of China after the Chinese people freed themselves from Mongol rule in the middle of the 14th century.

Each player takes the role of an imperial prince, guiding family members as they seek influence across six Chinese provinces. Every province is divided into three prefectures, creating a broad map for placing supporters and establishing majorities.

Players work to place their fellow supporters securely throughout the provinces. When a player’s family members gain majorities in the administration, that player is rewarded during the election rounds with gifts from the emperor.

• Play as an imperial prince competing for influence.
• Place family supporters across six provinces and their prefectures.
• Build majorities in provincial administration.
• Receive gifts from the emperor during election rounds.

The contest is not simply about gathering the greatest amount of influence. The player with the most balanced collection of influence chips is the one who can continue as the next emperor of the Ming dynasty.

With its historical setting, province-based placement, administrative majorities, election rounds, and focus on balance, Ming Dynasty presents a competition for imperial succession shaped by where family influence is established and how evenly it is developed.