Spring and Autumn: Story of China (2023)

About this game

Around 800BC China was blossoming as a civilization. The Zhou emperor sat on the throne of a feudal China and ruled through wise philosophers, able warlords, and a strong army. The Chinese world was making huge cultural, scientific, and philosophical strides. But a single generation later, those same advisors and lords rose up against the throne, and each other, to claim hegemony for their philosophy and way of life. Welcome to the Spring and Autumn period of ancient China. Spring and Autumn: Story of China is a 4X civilization game in which you take control of one of the pre-eminent states of the time to explore the world around you, expand your borders, research powerful advancements, build up your economy, and bring honor upon your name. Your goal is to establish a true dynasty in China. Spring and Autumn: Story of China expands on the system from in Hellenica: Story of Greece, introducing all-new gameplay elements like a philosophy system, diplomacy, enhanced combat, honor, expanded victory conditions, the Great Wall, and did we mention Chinese dragons? As with all "Story of" games, Spring and Autumn: Story of China will include the best AI and solo play system available in a 4x game. Can you guide your civilization during these turbulent times? Will your vision of Chinese civilization be remembered for all time, or will you merely be a stepping stone for another…? —description from the designer

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 5. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 3.4/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 11 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.