In 221 B.C., all the so-called Warring States are brought together. This is the birth of the vast Chinese empire, ruled by Qin Shi Huangdi. A skilled and determined strategist, but also a shrewd governor, he undertakes actions aimed at standardizing all the elements at the basis of Chinese society and culture; he imposes a single script and a single currency, then he establishes a new system of laws equal for all. He also builds palaces, installs local governors, and above all, starts the works for the construction of the greatest building in the history of mankind: the Great Wall.

A single life cannot suffice for such a vast empire. He sends ships to distant lands in search of the legendary elixir of life, and he builds a huge mausoleum containing the scale reconstruction of his empire. In defense of it for eternity, he deploys an impressive terracotta army...

In Zhanguo: The First Empire, you go along with the Emperor's plans to offer your family a place in the terracotta army.

In each of the five rounds of the game, you’ll have to go along with the Emperor’s plans by hiring workers to build magnificent Palaces and contribute to the realization of the Great Wall.

You will install Governors, with the support of Officers, in the various regions to consolidate control. You will send a ship in search of the elixir of long life so desired by the Emperor.

With this, you will earn a place for your family’s insignia in the immense Terracotta Army that is destined to watch over the Emperor’s Mausoleum for eternity.

To help you in this challenging task, 6 cards will be at your disposal every round. These cards represent the will of unification from the Emperor in the form of currency, writings, and laws. They will give you permanent support during the rest of the game or you can play them directly to the Emperor’s Court to obtain approval for your actions.

When you are in the presence of the Emperor at his Court, you will have to know how to approach or move away appropriately, because only at the right distance can you obtain the emperor’s approval.

At the end of the game, the player who made the greatest contribution to the Emperor’s cause by scoring the most Victory Points will win.

1–4 Players
60–120 Min Playing Time
Age: 14+

Awards & Honors

2024 UK Games Expo Best Boardgame (Euro-Style) Nominee

It may not be possible to ship very heavy items outside of the Mainland UK.
Released: 10 June 2024