Oath: Chronicles of Empire and Exile centers its gameplay around a fantastical country where the imperial rule vies against rebel factions for control of the throne.
At first glance, Oath is a daunting game, with many moving parts and a lot to look at all at once. But once you’re past the initial shock of the sheer quantity of things, the game boils down very simply. Actions are fairly straight forward, drawing cards, trading with locals, raising armies, going to war. The goals are clear for all to see, though they may shift as the game progresses.
But who are you? What is your story?
Are you the Chancellor? Then you must maintain the Oath sworn for your rule! You are the rightful ruler of this land and must defend your title as Oathkeeper. You're on your own, for the most part, but you will have opportunities to make allies.
Are you an Exile? Then the Chancellor is a liar in your eyes, unfit to rule and their throne yours for the taking. Show that you can maintain their Oath better than they can, or, have a vision of a new future and pursue it! Or maybe you see better odds in throwing your lot in with the Empire and accept citizenship? The path is yours.
The tale does not end once the game is over either. Oath has a legacy-like system called the Chronicle to remember how the game was played in previous sessions. Some territories will remain for the next session, while cards will be added and removed from the deck based on which card suits the winning player allied with. Goals will change, allegiances will shift, and some territories may fall into disarray.
The game even features a robust ‘AI’ player for lower count games, or if you want to fill in another seat for a more chaotic session.
The game is great for groups who love territory control, competing for objectives and over all large scale games.
So, go forth. Hold your crown, or prove that you should wear it instead. Find your path. Write your chronicle.
