Kings’ Struggle (2018) Board Game

Kings’ Struggle is a card game that was released in in 2018. It is designed for 3-6 players and is set in a medieval theme of negotiation and strategy. The game involves hand management, set collection, simultaneous action selection, take that, trading, and trick-taking mechanics. The game is designed by Luis Francisco and Weberson Santiago, with artwork by WizKids.

Game Components of Kings’ Struggle

60 playing cards

Round tracker board

6 reference cards

80 gold tokens

10 modifier markers

Round tracker marker

Current player marker

First player marker

How To Setup Kings’ Struggle

To set up Kings’ Struggle, each player receives their own deck of cards, distinguishable by card back designs. The remaining decks are not used. All gold tokens and modifier markers are placed in the center of the playing space. The round tracker board is also centered, with the round tracker marker on the starting space. Each player takes 5 gold tokens from the center. The first player is given the current player marker and the first player marker.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Hand Management: Players manage their hand of cards carefully.

Set Collection: Collecting sets of cards to earn Victory Points.

Simultaneous Action Selection: Players choose their actions simultaneously.

Trick-taking: Each round is a trick where players play one card.

Negotiation: Players negotiate and make deals.

Game Objective

Earn Victory Points: The goal is to accumulate the most Victory Points through collecting cards, gold tokens, and forming power runs.

Win Tricks: Win tricks to collect cards and gain the first player marker.

Negotiate: Use card abilities and negotiate with other players to maximize benefits.

Player Experience

Kings’ Struggle is mechanically simple but strategically complex. Players play just one card per round, but the unique card abilities and negotiation elements make each decision crucial. The game encourages players to analyze the table dynamics, leveraging their actions to influence other players and secure the best outcomes. Success in Kings’ Struggle depends more on mastering negotiation skills than on luck or linear card play strategies.

Pros

Engaging Negotiation: The game fosters interactive and strategic negotiation.

Simple to Learn: Easy to understand the basic mechanics.

Deep Strategy: Offers complex strategies and decision-making.

Social Interaction: Encourages player interaction and bargaining.

Cons

Luck Factor: Some elements of luck in card draws.

Dependence on Group Dynamics: The game’s enjoyment can vary based on the group’s willingness to negotiate.

Limited Card Abilities: Some players might find the card abilities too limited or repetitive.

Personal Thoughts on Kings’ Struggle

Kings’ Struggle is ideal for players who enjoy negotiation and social interaction in their games. It’s a great fit for groups that appreciate strategic depth and are willing to engage in active bargaining. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a purely luck-based or cooperative experience. This game is perfect for adults looking to enhance their negotiation skills and enjoy a competitive, yet socially engaging, game night.

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