These medieval board games are so fun, you won’t be able to help yourself from shouting “forsooth!”
For this list, we are trying to stick to the medieval European era style of theme. You know, knights, dragons, and castles kinda stuff. Think more King Arthur and less HeroQuest or Carcassonne.
Richard: The Lionheart
29% Off
Everything I know about Richard the Lionheart, and his brother Prince John, I learned from watching Robin Hood. I’ve seen both Men in Tights and the Disney version that forever sent many folks down a deviant(Art) road. Plus, I’ve played a lot of Sheriff of Nottingham, so I feel like I’m very well-versed on the subject.
Richard the Lionheart is another medieval board game where players get to choose their allegiance. However, here, players are siding with either King Richard or Prince John. John is trying to consolidate his power, and Robin Hood is doing everything in his merry power to stop him. Through gaining prestige and influencing the Crusades from afar, one player will be declared the victor once Richard returns, if he does at all.
Kingsburg
10% Off
Getting a little less historical with this medieval board game, Kingsburg. The first edition of the game was released in 2007 and the latest third edition is just rolling out. This edition contains updated art and rules, but overall remains the same as the previous edition.
Invaders are at the kingdom’s borders! It’s up to the players to drive them back by managing resources and allocating them intelligently. Plus, by influencing the royal family and the advisors, players can gain additional benefits. However, the players are each hoping to secure the best protection for their own kingdoms, hoping the invaders will crush the competition for the throne in the process.
Citadels
The Kingdom needs a new Master Builder, and you may just be the person for the job. In Citadels, players work to build up their majestic medieval city, recruit the local experts, and try to outwit and outmaneuver their competition. Many will make the city what it is, but only one will be the kingdom’s Master Builder, and you have to prove that you’re best for the job, even if you have to bluff your way to the top.
Middle Ages
Gotta love a descriptive title. Middle Ages is designed by the same guy who designed Splendor, Marc Andre. And it shows. The simple, minimalist layout, and the few but colorful components just have the same vibes.
In the Middle Ages, players are attempting to earn victory points through successfully managing their kingdom. They will have to gather resources, construct and upgrade various buildings, and engage in trade. It’s a simple but strategic game that offers a lot of depth, and where either agriculture, faith, or luxury can lead you to victory.
Sheriff of Nottingham
38% Off
I will admit this does stretch the limits of what I defined as a medieval board game at the start of the list, but it’s my list, and I can do what I want, Dad! Plus, we already talked about how this was all going on during King Richie’s little vacation, so it technically counts.
Sheriff of Nottingham is a game of bluff. Players are merchants hoping to gain the most profit by selling their wares in town. But the sheriff has placed a ban on lots of valuable goods, making them contraband. But, the clever merchant will sneak the goods into town anyway. It’s a game of bluff, but also open and blatant bribery. Even if you’re not good at bluffing, you can always get by with a good deal.
The Anarchy
When Henry I died in 1135, he left no male heir. His daughter, Empress Matilda, believed she should rule by succession, but his nephew, Stephen de Blois, was quick to take the throne. This spurred a civil war that lasted 18 years, known as ‘The Anarchy.’
In the game players must build their domain and defend their castle from attacks by incoming armies, all while storming strongholds loyal to Matilda. The player who can accumulate the most bravery, loyalty, influence and might will prove to King Stephen they are his most loyal ally, and earn immense wealth and holdings.
