The High Kings of Tara (1998) Board Game

The High Kings of Tara is an abstract strategy board game that was released in in 1998. Designed and illustrated by Murray Heasman, the game is published by ABACUSSPIELE and falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy and Territory Building. With a runtime of 30 minutes and suitable for players aged 10 and above, The High Kings of Tara offers a challenging and engaging gameplay experience.

Game Components of The High Kings of Tara

Game board featuring a playing field of hills

King pieces that move like knights in chess

Game cards for hill claims and other actions

Rulebook

How To Setup The High Kings of Tara

To set up the game, players start by constructing the game board, which represents a landscape of hills. Each player chooses their king pieces and places them on designated starting points on the board. The game cards are shuffled and distributed according to the rules. The hills on the board are claimed during the game as players move their kings.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement Mechanics: Kings move like knights in chess.

Hill Claiming: Players claim hills as they move their kings.

Strategic Placement: Strategic placement of kings to control key hills.

Game Objective: The goal is to control the most valuable hills on the board.

Player Experience

The High Kings of Tara offers a unique blend of strategic movement and territorial control, making it engaging for players who enjoy games that require careful planning and execution. The knight-like movement of the kings adds a layer of complexity, similar to chess, but with the added element of claiming and controlling hills.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game requires thoughtful planning and strategic movement.

Unique Mechanics: The combination of knight-like movement and hill claiming is distinct and engaging.

Competitive: Suitable for 2-4 players, making it a good option for small to medium-sized groups.

Cons

Learning Curve: The unique movement rules and hill claiming mechanics may take time to learn.

Limited Information: There is less documentation available compared to more popular games, which might make it harder for new players to find resources.

Personal Thoughts on The High Kings of Tara

The High Kings of Tara is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a touch of complexity, such as fans of chess or other abstract strategy games. It is particularly suitable for those looking for a game that challenges them to think ahead and control territory in a unique way. However, due to its niche status, it may appeal more to experienced board game enthusiasts rather than casual players.

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