King Oil
- Designer (Uncredited)
- Publisher MB Jeux , MB Spellen , MB Spiele , Milton Bradley
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In King Oil, you buy properties, drill for oil, and build pipelines to collect royalties from other players. The board is uniquely generated each game by three randomizing discs, allowing 1,728 different setups. Event cards add unpredictable twists, and drilling is simulated with a small rig. Your goal is to become the richest player by trading and controlling areas until all others go bankrupt.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 2 to 4 players aged 9 and up, King Oil is a family-friendly economic game. With a typical playtime of 60 minutes, it offers accessible rules but includes competitive elements like player elimination, making it suitable for casual to intermediate players.
How It Works
King Oil uses Area Majority to determine control over properties. Event cards introduce random effects that impact gameplay. Player Elimination occurs as players go bankrupt, with the game ending suddenly when only one remains solvent. Trading and building pipelines allow players to siphon royalties from opponents, accelerating the competition.
What Makes It Special
King Oil stands out with its plastic board featuring three rotating discs that create variable play areas. The combination of Area Majority and Player Elimination mechanics makes gameplay dynamic and competitive. Although the designer is uncredited, the game was published in 1974 by Milton Bradley and belongs to the oil industry theme family.
Pro
- Variable board setup through rotating discs
- Combination of Area Majority and Player Elimination
- Simple rules with economic focus
- Quick game end via pipeline royalty siphoning
Contra
- Player elimination can be frustrating
- Limited to 2-4 players
- Niche, historically themed setting
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the oil industry, focusing on drilling and pipeline construction in an industrial-themed world where players compete for economic dominance.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on developing your oil wells and strategically placing pipelines to secure steady income.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
King Oil is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
As a family game, King Oil requires no special prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
King Oil features a unique 3D board with variable areas and combines Area Majority with Player Elimination mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for families with children aged 9 and up who enjoy economic strategy games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Area Majority, Player Elimination, and Events mechanics makes King Oil dynamic.
Fazit
King Oil is a classic economic game for families and players who enjoy tactical influence and trading without complex rules. Player elimination adds tension but may require patience for those eliminated early.
