How to Play For the Queen: Setup and Play Guide

By Critical Role Store | Published: 2026-11-01

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to play For the Queen with a clear setup guide, prompt card flow, and tips for a smooth story card game night.

Quick answer

To play For the Queen, choose a Queen card, deal the prompt cards, and take turns answering the questions to build a shared story. Keep the rules light and let the narrative guide you.

Why the prompt cards matter more than the rulebook

For the Queen is a collaborative storytelling game where the prompt cards drive the experience. Unlike competitive card games, there are no winners or losers—the goal is to create a dramatic narrative together. The rules are minimal, so the group's creativity and willingness to engage with the prompts matter most. If players focus on 'winning' or giving short answers, the story falls flat. Encourage everyone to elaborate and build on each other's ideas.

Handling sensitive topics and player comfort

Because the prompts can touch on personal or emotional themes, it's important to establish a safe space before starting. Discuss boundaries and use the provided safety tools (like the X-card) if needed. The game is designed for mature audiences, so check in with your group about comfort levels. Skipping a prompt is always an option—the story won't suffer.

Step-by-step setup and play

Choose your Queen: Select one Queen card from the 25 included and place it where everyone can see it. This card sets the tone and identity of the ruler you'll be discussing. Avoid picking a Queen at random—let the group agree on one that sparks immediate interest.
Deal the prompt cards: Shuffle the prompt deck and deal a hand of cards to each player (the exact number is flexible; typically 3–5 per person). Place the remaining deck in the center. Don't skip shuffling thoroughly—repeated prompts can make the story feel stale.
Set the scene: Briefly describe the Queen's journey and the group's role as her companions. This shared context helps players answer prompts in a consistent world. Keep the intro short—overplanning can stifle spontaneity.
Take turns answering prompts: One player reads a prompt card from their hand and answers it in character. Then, any player who wants to can ask a follow-up question or add a detail. Continue clockwise. Encourage follow-up questions—they deepen the story and keep everyone engaged.
Discard and draw: After answering, discard the prompt card and draw a new one to maintain your hand size. This keeps the story moving and introduces new angles. Don't hoard cards—playing them is what drives the narrative forward.
Reach the final decision: Play continues until the deck runs out or the group feels the story has reached a natural conclusion. Then, each player secretly decides whether to stand for or against the Queen. Reveal decisions simultaneously to avoid influencing others.

Product facts

For the Queen: For the Queen is a card-driven collaborative storytelling game with 25 Queen cards. The variety of Queen cards lets you replay the game with different characters and starting points.
For the Queen