Tanto Monta: The Rise of Ferdinand and Isabella

Tanto Monta: The Rise of Ferdinand and Isabella is a four-player strategy game covering the rise of Spain, Portugal, France, and the Muslim powers of Iberia and North Africa between 1470 and 1516.

Set just before the era covered by Here I Stand, the game follows a turbulent period of dynastic politics, Reconquista warfare, Mediterranean diplomacy, and early overseas exploration. Each player controls one major power and one secondary power, creating a political landscape full of competing priorities and uneasy opportunities.

The Spanish player must navigate the fragile union of Castile and Aragon, Portugal pushes exploration and overseas trade, France seeks consolidation and influence, while the Muslim player defends Granada and North African interests. Military campaigns, diplomacy, royal marriages, exploration, and event cards all shape the struggle.

The game shares DNA with Here I Stand and Virgin Queen, but introduces its own features, including siege artillery, cavalry charges, headline events, and a dedicated exploration map for Africa, India, and the New World.

This is a strong choice for groups who enjoy rich multi-player historical strategy games with negotiation, asymmetry, and plenty of shifting political pressure. It is strictly a 4-player game.

Contents include: mounted map, 131 cards, player cards, supporting charts, reference charts, six countersheets, rulebook, scenario book, and twelve six-sided dice.