There's a Game of Thrones edition of Risk on the way

Four hours? Maybe five. And those are the games of Risk that usually see someone quitting half way through to nip out for more wine before the shops close.

We doubt anyone would leave the table if this was the edition of the game on offer.

HBO has literally lifted the lid on a Game of Thrones version of classic invasion game Risk, with a pre-order already creeping up on Amazon US.

Much like the show's blood-soaked storyline, the game isn't for the faint of heart: there are two maps (Westeros and Essos), some 650 pieces - dividing into seven armies - and 187 cards. 

There are three different ways of playing the game: War of Five Kings uses the Westeros board, and allows three to five players take control of Houses Martell, Stark, Baratheon, Lannister and Tyrell in a battle for the Iron Throne. A two-player game sees house Targaryen and Ghiscari battle for control of Essos and its slave trade, using the Essos board. For the hardcore players, there's the 'World at War' game that allows up to seven players compete for total domination of Westeros and Essos.

The cards also offer yet more referential fun, with Maester cards allowing you to gain tactical bonuses, territory cards to let you stake your claim on lands associated with your house, and character cards that unleashes the power of house figures: Daenerys Targaryen's card increases your chances in battle by switching six sided dice for eight sided dice. 

Given the abundance of game pieces (there are nine dice alone. NINE), the themed-edition is set to cost a few more Gold Dragons than your regular Risk: announced as having a $75 (£49) price tag for a US launch in August, it's yet to receive a UK price or release date. We've given the HBO EU Shop and nudge and will update as soon as we've had confirmation on UK details.

Until then, you'll just have to stick to playing regular Risk with the HBO box set playing in the background. And remember, Valar Morghulis.

(Images: USAopoly)

[Via: Wall Street Journal]