Featuring the Megagame…

After the Throne

is a fantasy megagame inspired by the intrigue, ambition, alliances, and betrayals of a famous struggle for a throne.

The ruler is gone. The realm stands at a crossroads. Great houses, ambitious leaders, secret factions, and ordinary people all have their own vision for what comes next—and no one has the power to decide alone.

Part role-playing game (RPG), part board game, and part narrative experiment, After the Throne brings dozens of players together in a living world where diplomacy, strategy, negotiation, and unexpected events shape the story in real time.

The details of the realm are still being forged, but one thing is certain: when the throne stands empty, everyone has a plan.

Join us on Friday at 6 PM until midnight!

A Megagame isn’t quite an RPG and isn’t quite a board game. It’s both—and something more.

Here’s what to expect…

…if you’re a role player…

Bigger. Way bigger. Think adventuring party…multiplied by ten.
There may be moments where you'll need to take turns like a board game. Not too many, we promise.
No social skill checks. Use your actual Charisma for Persuasion and Bluffing, your actual Wisdom to Sense Motive, and your actual Intelligence to find common ground.
Your “class” may be more distinct than typical in a tabletop RPG. You and your teammates may not even have the same rule book!
This is a true one-shot. No long rest. No sequel. No backup character.
Yes, you can absolutely dress up! Capes, hats, and flavor are all welcome.

…if you’re a board gamer…

Bigger. Much bigger. Imagine a game night with thirty of your closest strangers.
Less turn structure. Let there be simultaneous action, real-time decisions and mild chaos.
You can often do more than the rules explicitly say. The game coordinators (called Control) like creative ideas—especially if they are awesome and fit the narrative.
No victory points or score. Play toward your goals and enjoy the story that unfolds.
You won't know everything. In fact, that's part of the fun. Expect incomplete information, hidden agendas, and the occasional surprise.
You don't have to dress up or roleplay your character—but don't be surprised when some people do.

MegaFAQs

When is the megagame?

We are planning to start at 6pm promptly Friday evening and finish at midnight. Trust me, it'll be worth taking the afternoon off to be part of it!

What if I registered for AGOG, didn't indicate interest in the megagame… and now I want in!?

We knew you'd come around. Contact agog.megagame@chicago.us.mensa.org and we'll find a place for you.

When will I find out which team and role I will play?

We'll contact everyone a couple of months before AGOG to form teams and select roles.

Where do I find the rules?

We'll send out rules a few weeks before AGOG.

How old do I need to be?

This megagame has no adult themes, but murder, looming wars, and existential threats pervade the setting. More important is the focus and maturity to stay engaged in a six-hour social game, despite the occasional strife and setback. Think 13+, with more parental judgment the closer to 13 we get.

Are there any physical requirements to participate in the megagame?

You may need to move from one conference area to another every 30 minutes or so. If that is viable, you ought to be fine. However, contact us with any concerns.

Do I need to know anything about Game of Thrones to play?

Not at all! The theme is a bonus for those who know, but this is a stand-alone tale.

What if I get confused or overwhelmed during the megagame?

Like most (or all) megagames, there will be several game coordinators (called Control) who can assist and answer any questions you may have. You're in good hands!

Can I try it for a bit and then leave if I'm not into it??

If you participate, please make every effort to finish the game! While there are many others playing, everyone plays an important role and there's no fair way to fill a void. If you are really curious about the game but not willing to lock in, reach out to us in advance and let's see if we can come up with a role for you that gives you flexibility to drop in and out.

But what if I'm terrrrrible?

You won't be! It'll be chaotic, but you'll find a way. And don't forget: some of the best stories end tragically. Play it up, lean into it, and make it interesting.

I still have so many questions!

Keep checking back! We'll update the FAQ periodically (last updated: June 2nd). Until then, contact us via email at agog.megagame@chicago.us.mensa.org and we'll be happy to help!

After the Throne is presented as part of

A Gathering of Gamers
Westin North Shore Hotel
Wheeling, IL 60090