The Anarchy (2025)

Overview

At the end of 1135, King Henry I of England died unexpectedly without a male heir. His daughter, Empress Matilda, believed she should inherit the throne, but King Henry's nephew, Stephen de Blois, secured the crown with the support of his brother, the Bishop of Winchester. Matilda's supporters were furious and refused to accept Stephen as king, leading to eighteen years of civil unrest known as "The Anarchy." In The Anarchy, players assume the roles of nobles loyal to King Stephen. Over five rounds, they must fortify their domains, defend against Matilda’s Angevin armies, and seize strongholds using crafted siege weapons. The player who garners the most bravery, loyalty, influence, and might—while maintaining stability—will prove their allegiance to Stephen and earn the highest earldom.