Barbarian Kings
- Designer Greg Costikyan
- Publisher Hobby Japan , Jolly Roger Games , Kokusai-Tsushin Co., Ltd. (国際通信社) , SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Jason Millet , Redmond Aksel Simonsen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Barbarian Kings, players take on roles of provincial kings in a magical, conflict-ridden fantasy world. You plan action queues, lead armies into battle, and form alliances to conquer and consolidate provinces. The game blends tactical combat with secret unit movements and magical influences, creating unpredictable scenarios and intense player interaction where both cunning and military might are essential.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy complex strategy games with wargame elements. With a playtime around 120 minutes, Barbarian Kings demands patience and strategic planning. It is an expert-level game rather than a family casual game, and prior experience with tactical board games helps.
How It Works
Barbarian Kings uses mechanics like Action Queue and Programmed Movement, where players pre-plan and execute their moves. Movement happens on a large continental area map using Area Movement. Battles are resolved with Dice Rolling and a Ratio/Combat Results Table. Secret Unit Deployment adds tactical surprises. Each turn players write movement orders, negotiate alliances, and fight battles influenced by magic.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Greg Costikyan and published by SPI in 1980, Barbarian Kings uniquely combines classic wargame mechanics with a fantasy setting. Its mix of strategic area movement and secret unit deployment distinguishes it from traditional historical wargames. It belongs to the War Level of Command: Strategic family.
Pro
- Unique blend of fantasy and strategic wargame
- Deep planning via Action Queue and Programmed Movement
- Secret unit movements increase tactical depth
- About 120 minutes playtime for extended sessions
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Relatively long playtime requires patience
- Complexity might deter beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set on the fictional island of Castafon in the northern quadrant of the Fira Ocean on the planet Hypastia. This world is marked by political and military chaos where magic sometimes works. Players control provinces and vie for dominance during the so-called Red Age.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand mechanics like Action Queue and secret movements before playing with experienced players.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Barbarian Kings supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 120 minutes, allowing for lengthy, strategic play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is expert-level and requires experience with more complex strategy games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Barbarian Kings combines classic wargame mechanics with fantasy and secret unit movement, making it unique.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is less suited for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Action Queue, Programmed Movement, and Secret Unit Deployment defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Barbarian Kings is a demanding strategy game for players who appreciate complex fantasy wargames with deep planning. It is less suitable for casual or family players without prior experience.
