Keydom (1998)

About this game

Independently produced by British game designer Richard Breese, the three hundred copies of this game sold within hours of its initial offering at Essen 1998. Players represent a family of medieval professionals, such as Stonemasons or Fishermen. Using a set of numbered tokens and some misdirection, players try to achieve control in several areas of the board. Perhaps they are seeking resources. Or perhaps they will use their hard-fought resources to purchase special actions, magical spells, or a piece of the royal Keylore. The first player to acquire all three pieces of regalia and take them to the throne room is crowned King and is the winner. Re-tooled, this game was re-released as Aladdin's Dragons in 2000. Keydom is Richard Breese's second game in the key series. Re-implemented by: Aladdin's Dragons

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 5.
• Rules load. At 2.7/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 10 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.