Objective of the Game
Louis XIV is a strategy board game where players aim to collect money, supporter cards, and victory points by strategically placing influence markers and fulfilling missions. The player with the most victory points at the end of the game wins.
Setup
- Set up the board: Place the game board in the center of the table. The board features 12 court cards, various influence spaces, and the victory point track.
- Place court cards: Assign a random marker to each of the 12 court cards.
- Starting setup: Each player receives 4 influence markers of their color and places them on their supply space. In addition, each player receives a reserve of influence markers, action cards, and money according to the game's starting conditions.
- Deal mission cards: Each player receives a number of mission cards based on the difficulty level of the game. These cards show goals that need to be achieved to gain additional victory points.
Game Play
The game is played over four rounds, and each round consists of several phases:
1. Drawing cards and placing influence markers
- At the beginning of the round, draw the appropriate number of action cards as per game rules. These cards determine where and how influence markers can be placed.
- Players take turns placing their influence markers on the court cards, strategically deciding where to hold majorities by the end of the round.
2. Fulfilling Missions
- After placing influence markers, players can attempt to fulfill missions by meeting the conditions specified on their mission cards.
3. Majority Check
- Each court card is checked to determine which player has the majority of influence markers.
- The player with the majority receives the benefits of the court card, which can include extra victory points, money, or bonus actions.
4. Receive New Resources
- Players gain new influence markers, money, or mission cards based on the advantages gained from court cards. Additionally, supporter cards can be acquired.
5. End of Round
- Check if the special conditions of the round have been met and reset the board for the next round.
End of the Game
The game ends after the fourth round. Players tally all their victory points from fulfilled missions, certain supporter cards, and other advantages gained. The player with the most victory points is the winner.
Strategic Tips
- Secure majorities: Focus on securing majorities in influential areas.
- Prioritize missions: Choose and complete missions that offer the highest victory points early on.
- Resource management: Keep track of your money and influence markers to remain flexible in reacting to game situations.
- Observe opponents: Pay attention to which cards and strategies your opponents use to counteract effectively.
