A Game of Thrones Board Game: Trust No One

The most dangerous thing at this table might be a friend saying, “You can trust me.” A Game of Thrones: The Board Game, Second Edition puts you in command of a great house of Westeros, with armies to maneuver and alliances that may not survive the next round. It suits the group that enjoys negotiating almost as much as winning.

The secret planning is the good bit: players decide their orders before the action unfolds, so your grand strategy has to contend with everyone else’s private ambitions. The detailed map of Westeros gives all that scheming somewhere to go, while threats from the Wildlings give rivals a reason to cooperate, however briefly.

Set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is a substantial strategy night, not something to squeeze in while waiting for dinner. For friends who enjoy tactical battles and political bargaining, that commitment is part of the appeal. Just don’t confuse an alliance with a friendship contract.