Charlemagne: Dark Ages in Europe (1998)

About this game

(from the introduction:) Charlemagne is a game covering the rise of the Frankish Empire in the 8th-9th centuries AD under the leadership of Carl the Great - Carolus Magnus or Charlemagne. In this period, the Franks unified Western Europe and established the foundations for later Medieval civilization. Charlemagne is a two-player game. The Empire player controls the forces of the Frankish Kingdom, its allies, and client states. The Tribal player controls the forces of various competing kingdoms and tribes. Players must use a combination of military strength and cunning to maintain and increase their power. The Franks have the advantage of unity and a central position. The Tribal player controls a shifting coalition of forces. 280 counters.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 3.1/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.