1 / 7Osprey Games Brian Boru: High King of Ireland board game
Bloomsbury: Osprey Games Brian Boru: High King of Ireland is a historical strategy game built around trick-taking, regional influence and shifting alliances. Winning tricks can build influence in towns, while losing them lets players take an action linked to the card suit, giving players choices even when they do not win a trick.
At a glance
- Combines trick-taking with competition for influence in towns and majorities across regions.
- Three card-suit themes reflect gathering support, winning favour and joining forces against Viking invasions.
- Losing a trick can still provide an action corresponding to the card's suit.
Reference price: £45.20
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Trick outcomes have strategic consequences whether a player wins or loses the trick.
- The historical theme connects card suits with distinct routes to influence.
Technical specifications
7 specifications| Dimensions listed | 30.1 x 5.36 x 30.2 cm; 1.53 kg |
|---|---|
| Assembly required | No |
| Brand | Bloomsbury |
|---|---|
| Item model number | OSP44842 |
| Language | English |
| Colour | Multicolor |
| Release date | 29 Nov. 2021 |
What to know before buying
- The listing does not specify player count or play time, so confirm these details if they are important to your group. The stated dimensions and weight are listing specifications.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Players who enjoy trick-taking with additional choices tied to winning or losing a trick.
- Groups interested in historical themes, shifting alliances and area influence.
Less suited to
- Buyers who need confirmed player-count or play-time information before choosing a game.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
73% 73% - 4 stars
20% 20% - 3 stars
5% 5% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
0% 0%
Customer feedback describes the game as engaging, with particular appeal when played with four or more players. Customers also praise its production quality and distinctive use of trick-taking, and describe it as simple to play. These impressions may help buyers seeking an accessible card-driven strategy game, though the listing does not provide player-count details.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the gameplay as engaging and appreciate its production quality.
- Feedback highlights the unusual use of trick-taking and the range of tactics it can allow.
Frequently asked questions
How does trick-taking work in Brian Boru?
The listing describes three themed suits. Winning a trick gains influence in a town, while losing one allows an action corresponding to the card suit.
Does losing a trick have a benefit?
According to the listing, losing a trick lets the player take an action linked to that card's suit, so a loss can still advance a plan.
What does the game focus on?
Players aim to build influence and regional majorities while navigating alliances, with the themes of support, favour and resisting Viking invasions reflected in its suits.
What language is listed for the game?
The listed language is English.
Alternative options
Amazon Basics Junior BPA-Free 4-to-Score Giant Premium Plastic Games Set, 4 in A Row for Kids and Adults with Carrying Bag, Great For Gifting, Variety of Colors, Blue, Yellow, Red, Green, Large
£123.97
Asmodee | The Lord of the Rings: Duel for Middle-earth | The Epic 2-Player Strategy Board Game | A Legendary Battle for Middle-Earth | Simple to Learn Fun | Ages 10+, 30 Mins
£20.79
Asmodee | Survive The Island – The Iconic Survival Board Game | Simple to Learn, High-Tension | Sharks & Sea Monsters | Perfect for Families & Games Nights | Ages 8+ | 2-5 Players | 45 Mins
£23.15
CMYK Spots - A game about rolling dice, pushing your luck and dogs - For ages 10+. 1-4 Players, 20-30 minutes play time, Board Game, Ideal for Travel and Holidays
£25.99
Stonemaier Games | Wingspan 2nd Edition | The Stunning Relaxing & Strategic Bird-Collection Board Game for Adults & Teens| 1–5 Players, Ages 14+, 40-70 Mins
£47.00
