The King is Dead - Second Edition

The King is Dead: Second Edition is a strikingly deep game of political maneuvering set in the power vacuum following the death of the King. The kingdom is divided as three factions—the Scottish, the Welsh, and the English—vie for control of the realm. While these internal forces struggle for dominance, foreign invaders gather across the sea, waiting to exploit any sign of weakness. Players do not represent the factions themselves; instead, they act as influential nobles working behind the scenes. Your goal is to marshal your extremely limited resources to influence the power struggle, ensuring that whichever faction eventually rises to the throne favours your claim above all others.

This second edition refreshes the critically acclaimed design by Peer Sylvester with entirely new graphic design and gorgeous artwork that enhances the dark, historical atmosphere of the game. The core mechanics remain as elegant as ever: players have only eight cards to use throughout the entire game. Deciding when to play a card to shift the balance of power in a specific region, and when to pass to save your strength, creates a masterclass in tension and timing. This edition also introduces a brand-new asymmetric game mode, providing advanced players with unique character abilities that add fresh layers of strategy and unpredictability to every session.

Whether you are playing a tense three-player free-for-all or a strategic four-player team game, every decision is critical. Pulling a cube from the board to your personal supply increases your influence with a faction but simultaneously weakens that faction's presence on the map. If the internal bickering goes too far and no single faction can claim the crown, the French invaders will strike, changing the victory conditions entirely. The King is Dead is a game where the smallest move can have catastrophic consequences, offering a rewarding experience for those who enjoy tight, tactical gameplay and the art of the political gamble.

• Elegant Strategic Depth: A minimalist design where players must manage just eight cards over the course of the entire game to win the crown.
• Dynamic Victory Conditions: Win by being the most influential supporter of the dominant faction, or pivot your strategy if foreign invaders take the throne.
• New Asymmetric Mode: Includes a set of advanced cards that grant players unique powers, significantly increasing the variety and replayability of the game.
• Premium Visual Overhaul: Features stunning new illustrations and a refined layout that brings the historical drama of medieval Britain to life.
• Perfect for Small Groups: Specifically optimised to provide a high-tension experience for 2 to 4 players, with a typical play time of 30 to 45 minutes.