Leder GamesOath: Chronicles of Empire & Exile

Oath is a fantastic game to play. There's layers to the strategy you can implement behind it, the pieces and playmat are colorful, the artwork all around is fantastic, the list goes on. If I could talk about all the plus sides to this game, from basics down to the nitpicky, I would.This is an Amazon review; however, so let me get to the downsides and whether or not this game is for you.First, this game is a PAIN to teach. Before introducing it to my friends, I had to watch several tutorial videos and do three (THREE) playthroughs on my own to be confident about the rules. To further complicate things, each card adds more to this and can get overwhelming if you aren't familiar with key terms and words used throughout the game.On top of that, this game is horribly unbalanced. I have lost a game once where I didn't win a single battle, spent all game wandering the map for relics and searching for good cards that never materialized, and ultimately wanted nothing to do with the game afterwards. This is not a game where slow and steady wins the race.What this IS however is a glorious chronicle of a game where the cards, actions, sites and relics play into a larger story in which you and your friends are characters fighting for the throne. There are extremely powerful cards and relics that can form intimidating offensives or barriers to your opponents, but the best part is that each card has its counter. NOTHING in this game is invulnerable.Because of this, the plot twists in this game are second to none. Apart from the less-than-strategic victory die, each game-winning action feels so satisfying, and the tension of the last turn feels like the finale of your favorite TV series.That being said, the cardboard components included and the chronicle book omitted from this copy add to the experience of the game, and are only worth buying if you have a willing group ready for this masterpiece.Between its ups and downs, my frustrations behind this game ultimately are balanced by its capabilities and creativity. After several more playthroughs in which other friends got to watch and get immersed in the story we had written, the Chancellor in our game will soon have much more work to do in the future.

I bought this game to play with family and friends from various friend groups. I have to say this is one of the more heavy games I've learned (easier than Game of Thrones the board game though). However, there are tutorials on Youtube and watching playthrough online covered any ambiguity.The first playthrough was a challenge, but the second was much better and smoother.I really love the artwork and the mechanics of this game. The implementation of secrets as a renewable resource and the various suit banks are genius and allow for economic warfare.The biggest complaint I've seen from my group are the cards require a bit of reading and analysis. However, the game does a good job by making the cards of the winner from the previous game in the next game. And the territory from the previous game gets ported over to the next game along with their relics. This is an amazing concept that makes the game feel better than other legacy games I've played. And the continuity really pays dividends in making everyone equally familiar at the start of a new round.Was rewarding to see my mom win the first game we played by conquering the most territory. Then when she won again (through relics and banners) she got to build a great wall in her lands for the next game.Overall great game! I've now bought the metal coins, books, covers, and journals.

Wow. Just Wow. FYI i'm someone who loves these kinds of games but... Wow. I haven't played yet only spent time checking it out but I think it looks like one of the coolest games ever. What I really want to say is the production is, for me, amazing. The colors on literally everything just glow. Internet images aren't as good as the actual thing. As far as just the production quality of the game - I think the $84 price (along with the Affirm payments) is worth it. That play-mat is insane. Hefty, durable and awesome looking. Lol and big.But I think the first thing everyone needs to know is that this is a Super niche game. Its very unusual. A lot lot lot of people will not be interested in this kind of game. Def do serious research first if your thinking about it. But for the people who are into this kind of thing - its even way cooler than I thought now that I can actually read thru everything instead of just reading and watching online. Wow. Thank you Ledergames!

This is an awesome game, very detailed, with a tight ruleset and beautiful components, especially if you splurge on the deluxe add ons available through Leder games. The emergent story telling possible through the multiple playthrough campaign style(non-Legacy) is amazing for dedicated groups; however, this is not a light game. I would say try this out before you buy it, but if it is up your alley, it’s the best of its kind.

This game is a really interesting one. It’s a game of war and politics. Will you seize the crown through force, politics or subtlety in the shadows?While it’s on the heavier side to learn, the gameplay is actually quite smooth. There is also a solo mode that does a decent job of simulating an opponent but the multiplayer is where it shines. Due to the negotiating that can take place, no automa opponent can simulate that so the game loses some of its charm in solo.That being said, if you’re a fan of “Game of Thrones” or similar books, shows or movies then this game is right up your alley.

My son had been searching awhile for this game. The 12 year old twin grands love it but too complicated for Grandma!

With "new" mechanics mixed into one game, this last game from Cole is another masterpiece. If you like Root or Pax Pamir, you'll love Oath. If you don't know these but love games with diplomacy, battles, promises/backstabbing, somewhat variable player powers, and even an optional "legacy" effect (where the outcome of one play sessions alters "the land" in which Oath takes place), then you'll love Oath.