Stronghold
- Designer Ignacy Trzewiczek
- Publisher Portal Games , IELLO , Phalanx Games B.V. , Valley Games, Inc.
- Illustration Mariusz Gandzel , Tomasz Jedruszek , Michał Oracz
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Stronghold, players take opposing roles: one defends a fortress while the other tries to breach it. Each turn features intense combat involving building war machines, training soldiers, and casting dark magic. The game board depicts the stronghold and surrounding terrain, emphasizing strategic movement and area control. Victory points are earned by defenders for holding the walls over time.
Who Is This Game For?
Stronghold is aimed at experienced players who enjoy complex strategy games with fantasy and combat themes. With a playtime of around 120 minutes and a recommended age of 10+, it is a gamer-level game requiring tactical planning and patience. Prior experience with strategic and combat games helps to master its varied actions.
How It Works
Players use Action Points to move units, build machines, and perform rituals. Area Majority and Point to Point Movement mechanics determine control of the fortress and terrain. Variable Player Powers give attackers and defenders unique abilities and goals. The game supports team-based play where players cooperate or compete in teams.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ignacy Trzewiczek, Stronghold won the 2010 International Gamers Award for General Strategy: Two-players. It blends tower defense elements with tactical combat and asymmetric roles, standing out for its focus on siege strategy and variable player powers.
Awards
2010
2010
- 2010 Gra Roku Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2010 JoTa Best Artwork — Nominated
Pro
- Asymmetric gameplay with variable player powers
- Intense tactical battles and strategic depth
- Winner of the 2010 International Gamers Award
- Core mechanics include Action Points and Area Majority
Contra
- Long playtime around 120 minutes requires patience
- Complexity demands prior experience and strategic thinking
- No solo mode; designed for 2-4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a medieval fantasy world, Stronghold simulates a dramatic siege where players command defenders or attacking creatures using magic and war machines.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the distinct roles and action options before pursuing complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Stronghold 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 120 minutes, offering an extended session with tactical depth.
What prior experience do I need?
Stronghold is a gamer-level game requiring experience with complex strategy and combat games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Stronghold stands out due to its asymmetric roles and blend of tower defense with tactical combat mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
With a 10+ age recommendation and high complexity, Stronghold is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Action Points, Area Majority, and variable player powers shapes the tactical gameplay.
Fazit
Stronghold is recommended for players who enjoy deep tactical duels with asymmetric roles. It may be challenging for beginners but offers rewarding gameplay for seasoned strategists.
