King of the Tabletop (1983) Board Game

King of the Tabletop is a classic board game that was released in in 1983. It was designed by David A. Trampier and Tom Wham, and published by Tactical Studies Rules (TSR). The game is known for its blend of bluffing, exploration, fantasy, and humor, making it a popular choice for fans of tabletop gaming.

Game Components of King of the Tabletop

Year: 1983

Designer: Tom Wham

Category: Fantasy Board Game, Hex-and-Counter

Components: Hex tiles representing different terrains, counters for land, castles, settlements, people, and creatures.

How To Setup King of the Tabletop

Players create the playing surface by randomly assembling hex tiles to form a map. This setup is reminiscent of a hex-and-counter style wargame, but abstracted to its essentials with a play-mat style configuration. The tiles include various terrains such as mountains and forests, which define the game environment.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Each player controls a kingdom, aiming to expand their territory, build castles, and manage resources.

Mechanics: Hex-and-Counter system, Resource Management, Territory Building

Gameplay: Players take turns managing their kingdom, encountering random events, and interacting with the game world through counter draws. The game is known for its simplicity and strategic depth.

Player Experience

**King of the Tabletop** offers a unique blend of strategy and luck. Players appreciate the abstracted yet engaging gameplay, which simplifies complex wargame elements into an accessible format. The game is praised for its fun and entertaining nature, although some players note that luck plays a significant role, which can sometimes overshadow strategic planning.

Pros

Simple yet Strategic: The game abstracts complex mechanics into an easy-to-learn format.

High Replayability: Random terrain setup and counter draws ensure each game is different.

Fun and Entertaining: Players enjoy the wild and unpredictable nature of the game.

Cons

Luck-Driven: Random events can significantly impact gameplay, sometimes overshadowing strategic decisions.

Limited Player Interaction: The game focuses more on individual kingdom management than direct player conflict.

Personal Thoughts on King of the Tabletop

**King of the Tabletop** is ideal for those who enjoy light-hearted, strategic games with a touch of luck. It’s a great fit for players looking to experience an early iteration of the hex-and-counter genre without the complexity of full-fledged wargames. While it may not offer the depth of its successor, **Kings & Things**, it remains a charming and nostalgic game that can provide hours of fun for players who appreciate its unique blend of simplicity and strategy.

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.