The Raven Banner

John Keyworth, Kiwi Game Design

After a century of raids on England's east coast, the Danes have decided to settle down and make a home there. The ruling Saxon kingdoms are vulnerable - Northumberland is ruled by a Danish puppet, Mercia is in the midst of a leadership struggle, and the king of Wessex has died, leaving behind his young, sickly brother Alfred. But the Danish leaders have their own troubles, juggling ambitious lieutenants and a rebellious population. Who will decide the fate of England, and who will be forgotten by history?

The Raven Banner is a small-scale megagame which loses none of the emergent narratives and cut-throat politics of a full-day game. Players manage their armies and resources, steward their territory, and negotiate with allies and enemies alike to try to achieve their goals.

• 12-16 players

• All roles are very approachable - four players start as faction leaders which may not suit everyone

• Runs with 2 facilitators. The Raven Banner is designed to be taught on the day of the game, so one of you will need to be prepared to run this teach

• The player handbook is available for free; the full game pack costs £15

• The basic version of the game runs with standard playing cards and dice, and a small amount of printing. The game pack also comes with files for custom game cards and bound handbooks, if you want to splash out a little

• Total cost (including game files, before venue) approx £25-£100