A genealogical chart titled "KINGS + CASTLES" depicting a lineage of English royalty, with names and titles from William I to Richard III, including connections between them, and a silhouette of a knight in the upper right corner.
| | | | | | | | |

Kings & Castles (1980)

ByMichail

Kings & Castles is a board game that was first published in 1902 by Parker Brothers. It is a strategic fantasy wargame where players each take one of the kingdoms on the map, are given a king, a prince, a castle, and must conquer as many regions as possible with their own and opponents’ forces. The game is significant because it is part of the Golden Age of board games, which spanned from the 1880s to the 1920s. During this time, playing board games and card games became a favorite pastime, and thanks to the Industrial Revolution and the invention of mass production, games became more available and affordable.

Game Components of Kings & Castles

  • Number of players: 2-8
  • Game pieces: Individual king tokens and various wartime units
  • Board: A fantasy-themed battlefield
  • Other components: Likely include player boards, resource tokens, and combat resolution mechanics, though specific details are scarce.

    How To Setup Kings & Castles

    Setup involves each player selecting their king and placing their units on the board. The exact process is not detailed in available sources, but it typically involves distributing resources and units according to the game’s rules.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game category: Fantasy wargame
  • Game mechanics: Resource management, area control, combat resolution
  • Objective: Players aim to defeat other kings and emerge victorious in the warring fantasy world.
  • Excitement value: High, as noted in reviews for its engaging gameplay.

    Player Experience

    Players experience a dynamic and exciting game with a high level of competition. The game is designed to keep players engaged through strategic battles and resource management.

    Pros

  • High excitement value: Engaging gameplay that keeps players interested.
  • Multiplayer capability: Supports 2-8 players, making it a great option for large groups.
  • Strategic depth: Involves resource management and combat tactics.

    Cons

  • Limited modern availability: The game is from 1980 and may be hard to find.
  • Simple rules: While engaging, the rules might be less complex compared to modern games.

    Personal Thoughts on Kings & Castles

    **Kings & Castles** is ideal for those who enjoy classic fantasy wargames with a simple yet engaging mechanic. It is particularly suited for groups of players looking for a fun, competitive experience without overly complex rules. However, due to its age, it may appeal more to collectors or those nostalgic for 1980s board games.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl