Cutthroat Kingdoms

Alderac Entertainment Group · Board game · 2017

— Ludopedia 6.6 BGG 3–6 · best 4 90–150 min Weight 2.7/5

Buy · from US$ 29.95

— rating Ludopedia

6.6 rating BGG

Buy · from US$ 29.95

Our Verdict

FOR GENRE FANS

If you enjoy a game packed with backstabbing, heavy negotiation, and a touch of medieval fantasy, Cutthroat Kingdoms is for you! Get ready for alliances that last a turn and epic betrayals.

Highlights

Intense intrigue and negotiation
High player interaction
Modular board and unique powers
Engaging medieval fantasy theme

Keep in mind

Considerable language dependency
Can be chaotic and long
Requires players willing to negotiate

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About the game

What you do in a play session

Hey everyone! Ready for a royal showdown in a chaotic fantasy realm? In Cutthroat Kingdoms, the throne of Aurum is up for grabs, and six noble houses are ready to do anything to claim it. Forget peace, because this game is all about political intrigue, questionable alliances, and, of course, plenty of war! You'll step into the shoes of a lord or lady from one of these houses, using your army to conquer territories, gather wealth, recruit mercenaries, and maybe even pull off a dirty trick to gain power. The plague ravaging the kingdom is just another detail for those focused on total domination, right? The game shines in its open negotiation: anything goes to form alliances, marry off your heirs, and secure your house's future. But beware, because a deal today could turn into betrayal tomorrow! The modular board ensures each game is different, and each house's unique abilities give you that strategic edge. If you enjoy a game with lots of interaction, bluffing, and plot twists, where table talk is as crucial as strategy, Cutthroat Kingdoms might be your new obsession. Just don't say we didn't warn you about the backstabbing!

Gallery

Box and component photos

11 photos · from the community

01 / 11

Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

In English

How to Play Cutthroat Kingdoms in 6 Minutes BGG Watch on YouTube

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–6 players

3 OK

4 BEST

5 REC

6 BEST

Soundtrack

Ambience suggested by Melodice

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Publisher Alderac Entertainment Group

Designer Bryan Merlonghi

Artist Culpeo Fox

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

534owners

175wishlist

14want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions

What is the complexity level of Cutthroat Kingdoms?

Cutthroat Kingdoms is considered a moderately complex game. The basic rules are accessible, but the strategic depth comes from player interaction, negotiation, and adapting to others' actions.

How long does a game typically last?

Games can vary significantly, but they usually range from 90 to 150 minutes, depending on the player count and how quickly negotiations are resolved.

Can it be played with fewer than 3 players?

The game is designed for 3 to 6 players. Playing with fewer than 3 might compromise the negotiation and alliance dynamics, which are key strengths of the game.

Do I need to know English to play?

Yes, the game has a significant amount of text on cards and components. A full translation or fluent English speakers are essential for a good experience.

Is the game more focused on combat or negotiation?

Cutthroat Kingdoms balances both, but negotiation and political intrigue are at the heart of the game. Combat is a tool to achieve negotiated or betrayed objectives.

Who is this game recommended for?

It's ideal for groups who enjoy games with high social interaction, bluffing, temporary alliances, and a dark-tinged medieval fantasy theme.