Architects of the West Kingdom

Garphill Games, Angry Lion Games, Banana Games · Board game · 2018
1–5 · best 4 Solo 60–80 min Weight 2.8/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're looking for a worker placement game with a unique twist on resource management and a compelling moral dilemma, Architects of the West Kingdom is a fantastic choice that will keep you strategizing from start to finish.

Highlights
  • Innovative worker placement mechanism
  • Engaging moral choices impact gameplay
  • Satisfying engine building and construction
  • High replayability with varied strategies
Keep in mind
  • Player interaction can be aggressive
  • Theme might not appeal to everyone
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
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About the game
In 'Architects of the West Kingdom', we're whisked away to the late Carolingian Empire, around 850 AD. As royal architects, our goal is simple yet challenging: impress the King and maintain our noble status by constructing incredible landmarks throughout his new domain. To do this, we'll need to roll up our sleeves, gather raw materials, hire skilled apprentices, and, of course, keep a close eye on our workforce. After all, the competition is fierce, and other architects won't hesitate to use questionable tactics to hinder our progress. The game places us at a constant moral crossroads: will you follow the path of virtue or venture into the black market and its tempting offers? Ultimately, points are what matter. We earn points by constructing buildings and contributing to the magnificent Archbishop's Cathedral. But beware! Your ethical choices will only be judged at the very end. Small deviations might seem harmless, but if you delve too deep into corruption, the consequences will be severe. The game concludes once a predetermined number of constructions are completed, revealing who was the most efficient architect... and perhaps the most 'virtuous'. Get ready for tough decisions and a race against time and your rivals!
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Architects of the West Kingdom English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
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Game details

Families

Components: Meeples Components: Wooden pieces & boards Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Digital Implementations: Tabletopia
Publisher Garphill Games, Angry Lion Games, Banana Games, CMON Global Limited, Fever Games, Korea Boardgames
Designer S J Macdonald, Shem Phillips
Artist Mihajlo Dimitrievski
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Architects of the West Kingdom?
A game typically lasts between 60 and 80 minutes. It's a great length for a strategic experience without overstaying its welcome.
How many players can play?
The game accommodates 1 to 5 players. Yes, there's a solo mode for when you want to build your kingdom in peace!
What is the complexity level of the game?
It's considered a medium-weight game (2.76/5 on BGG). It's accessible for those with some board game experience, but offers enough depth for more seasoned players.
Are the components of good quality?
Yes, the West Kingdom series is known for its quality components, featuring sturdy meeples and wooden pieces, along with great artwork that immerses you in the medieval theme.
Who is 'Architects of the West Kingdom' recommended for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy worker placement games with interesting moral decisions and a touch of player interaction. If you like building and optimizing your actions, you'll have a lot of fun!
Is there a language dependency to play?
Not much! The text on the cards is minimal and easily memorizable, so it's not a barrier for non-English speakers.