The King Is Dead

Osprey Games, Giochix.it · Board game · 2015
2–4 · best 3 30–50 min Weight 2.5/5
7.4 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
7.4 rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love games where diplomacy and political strategy are sharper than any sword, The King Is Dead is a perfect fit. It's an influence game that will make you sweat!

Highlights
  • Engaging political strategy
  • Constant tension
  • Impactful decisions
  • High replayability
  • Intense interaction
Keep in mind
  • Can be abstract for some
  • Requires careful planning
  • Limited communication challenges
RECOMMENDED
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.
About the game
Hey everyone! Get ready to dive into post-King Arthur Britain, a chaotic period where the throne is vacant and diplomacy is the only way to avoid civil war. In The King Is Dead, you won't be drawing swords, but rather cards and strategies to unite the Scottish, Welsh, and Romano-British factions. Forget brutal conquest; here, power is gained through influence and cunning.

Each player takes on the role of a member of Arthur's court – you might be a loyal knight, a scheming lord, or an ambitious noblewoman. What matters is that you all have one thing in common: a thirst for power. Each turn, you'll use your cards to support one of the three factions, increasing their influence in one of the eight regions on the map. But be careful, your actions can have unexpected consequences! The game is a true tug-of-war, where every move counts and managing your hand of cards is crucial.

The ultimate goal? To be the player with the most influence over the most powerful faction at the end of the game. The map shrinks, tensions rise, and alliances are made and broken every round. It's a tense area majority game where communication can be limited, adding an extra layer of challenge. If you enjoy a political game with plenty of interaction and tough decisions, The King Is Dead is a sure bet for your table!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
WHERE TO BUY
Finding best prices...
Game details

Families

Category: Combinatorial Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Country: England Country: Scotland Country: Wales Game: The King Is Dead
Publisher Osprey Games, Giochix.it
Designer Peer Sylvester
Artist Benoit Billion, Peter Dennis
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players does The King Is Dead support?
The game is ideal for 2 to 4 players, working very well at all counts, but the dynamic changes a bit depending on how many are at the table.
What is the average game duration?
A game of The King Is Dead usually lasts between 30 and 50 minutes. It's a medium-length game, perfect for a quicker session, yet full of decisions.
What is the complexity level of the game?
It's considered a medium complexity game (BGG weight 2.45/5). The rules are easy to learn, but the strategic depth and political nuances make it challenging to master.
Does The King Is Dead have a lot of player interaction?
Yes, interaction is very high! It's a constant tug-of-war game, where every action directly affects others' plans. Get ready for lots of diplomacy (and some betrayals!).
Who is The King Is Dead recommended for?
It's perfect for those who enjoy area control games, hand management, and intense political interaction. If you like to think ahead and adapt to your opponents' moves, you'll love it!
Does the game have expansions?
Currently, The King Is Dead does not have official expansions, but its high replayability and strategic depth ensure that each game is unique.