Architects of the West Kingdom cover
2018BGG rank #130

Architects of the West Kingdom

by S J Macdonald, Shem Phillips · Garphill Games

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Players1–5
Time60–80m
ComplexityMedium-Light
Age12+

About the game

What is Architects of the West Kingdom?

Architects of the West Kingdom is set at the end of the Carolingian Empire, circa 850 AD. As royal architects, players compete to impress their King and maintain their noble status by constructing various landmarks throughout his newly appointed domain. Players need to collect raw materials, hire apprentices, and keep a watchful eye on their workforce. These are treacherous times, and rival architects will stop at nothing to slow your progress. Will you remain virtuous, or be found in the company of thieves and black marketeers? The aim of Architects of the West Kingdom is to be the player with the most victory points (VP) at game's end. Points are gained by constructing various buildings and advancing work on the Archbishop's cathedral. Throughout the game, players need to make a lot of moral decisions. However, only at game's end will their virtue be judged. A few underhand deals here and there might not seem like much, but fall too far and you will be punished. The game ends once a set number of constructions have been completed. —description from the publisher

How it plays

Mechanics

Area MovementContractsEnd Game BonusesEventsKill StealLoansOpen DraftingSolo / Solitaire GameStatic CaptureTagsTake ThatTrack MovementVariable Player PowersVariable Set-upWorker Placement

On the shelf

Categories

City BuildingEconomicMedieval

Questions players ask

Questions to bring to BoardGameBrain

  • How do setup and the first turn work in Architects of the West Kingdom?
  • When does scoring happen and what ends the game?
  • How should the table resolve an unusual timing or rules interaction?