Gùgōng: The Imperial Architects - a majestic prequel to the award-winning Gùgōng.
The Emperor’s Grand Vision
China, early 15th century. The mighty Yongle Emperor has seized the throne and dreams of building a city unlike any other, a place where Heaven and Earth meet, and where his dynasty’s power will echo for centuries. You are one of the Emperor’s most trusted Imperial Architects, chosen to transform that vision into reality: to build the magnificent palaces, temples, and halls that will become the Forbidden City. But the Emperor’s court is a place of subtle politics and calculated favors. To succeed, you must balance loyalty and ambition, using the court’s intricate gift-exchange system to gain influence and ensure your legacy is carved into history.
In Gùgōng: The Imperial Architects, each player leads a workshop of builders competing for the Emperor’s favor.
Using the acclaimed gift-exchange mechanism introduced in Gùgōng, every action requires careful planning:
- Offer gifts to gain access to powerful locations.
- Train and deploy workers to construction sites across the city.
- Acquire resources and designs to erect grand buildings and monuments.
- Earn Prestige and Favor by contributing to the Emperor’s vision before your rivals.
Timing, foresight, and subtle influence are key. Only those who master both strategy and diplomacy will see their name honored in the Hall of Eternal Glory.