Kings & Castles
Kings & Castles at your next game night?
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- Designer Sven Bauer
- Publisher Athena Games
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 control of kingdoms with kings, princes, and castles, aiming to conquer territories on a continental scale map. Over 15 turns per year, players simultaneously plan troop movements, engage in combat resolved by dice and cards, and manage production points to build units including siege engines and magical creatures like dragons. Optional rules introduce pirates, bandits, and wizards for added complexity.
Who Is This Game For?
Kings & Castles is suited for experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy complex, long games lasting up to 300 minutes. It is a strategy-heavy game requiring patience and tactical foresight, making it more a hobbyist wargame than a family game.
How It Works
The game features Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Simultaneous Action Selection mechanics. Players simultaneously plot movements of their forces on the map. Combat uses a card deck with the number of cards drawn depending on unit strength. Production points allow purchasing various units, which are strategically deployed to control territory and castles.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Sven Bauer in 1980, Kings & Castles stands out by combining simultaneous action selection with dice and card combat in a fantasy wargame setting. Optional rules for pirates, wizards, and dragons add unique tactical layers compared to traditional wargames of its era.
Pro
- Deep strategic gameplay with simultaneous action selection
- Varied units including magical creatures
- Extensive depth through optional rules and factions
- Long-term planning over 15 turns per year
Contra
- Very long playtime (up to 300 minutes)
- High complexity, not beginner-friendly
- No solo mode
- Requires patience and focus
Setting & atmosphere
Set in a medieval fantasy world featuring kingdoms, castles, dragons, and magical units, the game map represents a continental scale with threats from pirates and bandits.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on mastering movement planning and production points before exploring optional rules.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, Kings & Castles is designed for 2 to 8 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A full game can last up to 300 minutes, requiring an extended play session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players, ideally with knowledge of wargames and complex strategy titles.
How does this compare to similar games?
Kings & Castles uniquely combines simultaneous action selection with dice and card combat in a fantasy wargame, including magical units like dragons.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced gamers rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of simultaneous action selection, area movement, and dice rolling defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Recommended for players who appreciate deep, lengthy strategy games with a fantasy theme. The long playtime demands commitment and planning, making it less suitable for casual or family gaming.
Kings & Castles at your next game night?
Add Kings & Castles to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Kings & Castles to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
