King of Tokyo
King of Tokyo at your next game night?
Add King of Tokyo to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Richard Garfield
- Publisher IELLO , Boardgame Space , Brädspel.se , Brain Games , Bureau de Juegos
- Illustration Gabriel Butik , Romain Gaschet , Paul Mafayon , Igor Polouchine , Benjamin Raynal , Jean-Baptiste Reynaud
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
Players take on the roles of giant monsters, robots, or aliens, rolling six dice up to three times to earn points, energy, healing, or attacks. Occupying Tokyo grants extra points but no healing and draws attacks from all others. Energy buys special cards with various effects. The goal: reach 20 victory points or be the last monster standing.
Who Is This Game For?
King of Tokyo is a quick, medium-weight game lasting about 30 minutes, suitable for ages 8 and up. It appeals to players who enjoy simple dice mechanics combined with tactical card play. Player elimination and combat theme make it less ideal for very young children but great for families and casual gamers.
How It Works
Each turn, you roll six dice showing numbers, energy, heal, or attack symbols. You may reroll dice up to two times, deciding which to keep. Attacking players in Tokyo can take over the city by knocking out the current occupant. Energy lets you buy cards with lasting or temporary effects. The game ends when a player reaches 20 points or is the last monster alive.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Richard Garfield, King of Tokyo uses mechanics like Push Your Luck, Player Elimination, and King of the Hill. It was nominated for the 2012 As d'Or - Jeu de l'Année. The game blends dice luck with strategic card play in a monster battle setting inspired by Japanese films.
Awards
2013
2012
2012
2011
2011
2011
- 2011 Lys Grand Public — Finalist
- 2011 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Quick playtime around 30 minutes
- Simple rules with strategic depth
- Engaging Push Your Luck dice mechanic
- Dynamic gameplay with player elimination
Contra
- Player elimination may frustrate some
- Luck of dice influences outcomes
- Not ideal for very young children under 8
Setting & atmosphere
Set in Tokyo, Japan, the game features giant monsters and extraterrestrials fighting to dominate the city. The theme draws inspiration from classic Godzilla movies and monster films.
Tips for beginners
Be flexible with your dice rolls and decide carefully when to attack or heal to control or defend Tokyo.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
King of Tokyo is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include an official solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a medium-weight game with straightforward dice mechanics, requiring minimal prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
King of Tokyo combines Push Your Luck with player elimination and King of the Hill elements in a monster battle theme.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable for ages 8 and up with simple rules, though player elimination might not appeal to very young kids.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its Push Your Luck dice rolling and King of the Hill mechanics make King of Tokyo stand out.
Fazit
King of Tokyo is an entertaining, fast-paced dice game for 2 to 6 players, especially for fans of monster and dice games. It’s recommended for those who can handle some luck and player elimination.
King of Tokyo at your next game night?
Add King of Tokyo to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add King of Tokyo to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
