Down with the King
- Designer Glenn Rahman , Kenneth Rahman
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co , Verlag für Fantasy- und Science Fiction-Spiele
- Illustration Ulrich Allgaier , Jost Amman , Albrecht Dürer , Charles Kibler , Thomas Lamm , Alan R. Moon
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Down with the King, players take on the roles of nobles in the fictional Baroque-era nation of Fandonia. They cooperate to overthrow the king but compete to claim the throne themselves. The game features multiple decks of cards and requires strategic selection from 19 possible actions, with only two allowed per turn. High player interaction arises from actions during others' turns and the fact that eliminated players return as heirs.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy political and negotiation games. With a playtime of around 120 minutes, it demands patience and strategic thinking. Prior experience with political card games helps manage the variety of actions and interactions.
How It Works
Down with the King uses mechanics like Dice Rolling, Events, and Open Drafting. Players gain prestige and influence, recruit characters, and employ political troubles such as plagues or interrogations against opponents. Actions can be performed during other players' turns, creating a dynamic and interactive gameplay experience.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Glenn Rahman and Kenneth Rahman in 1981, this political fantasy card game combines Dice Rolling and Events mechanics with high player interaction. Unlike many games, players do not get eliminated early but return as heirs, adding layers of strategy. Although it lacks awards, it is a classic Avalon Hill title in the political genre.
Pro
- High player interaction through actions during others' turns
- Varied political and strategic options
- No early player elimination, heirs rejoin the game
- Combination of Dice Rolling and Events mechanics
Contra
- Lengthy playtime around 120 minutes requires patience
- Complex rules and many action options can overwhelm new players
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the fictional nation of Fandonia during the European Baroque era, players embody nobles vying for power and influence in the kingdom.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the wide range of available actions and closely watch opponents to anticipate their strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Down with the King is designed for 2 to 6 players and has no solo variant.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, making it an extended play session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with political or complex card games helps due to the many actions and interactions.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines Dice Rolling, Events, and Open Drafting in a political setting with high interaction and no early player elimination.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Dice Rolling, Events, and Open Drafting creates varied and interactive gameplay.
Fazit
Down with the King is recommended for players seeking complex political strategy and interaction. It is less suitable for families or casual gamers due to its length and complexity.
