The Duke and the King: The Struggle for the Kingdom 2026

A Medieval Print & Play Strategy Wargame

The Duke and the King is a tactical strategy game that pits the Sovereign against a rebellious Duke in a struggle for the kingdom. To capture the epic atmosphere of medieval warfare, all warriors have been recreated from illustrations found in the Codex Manesse, one of the greatest illuminated manuscripts of the 14th century.

The Armies Each army includes 32 warriors, available both as flat counters and as optional 3D stand-up miniatures. Lead Kings, Constables, Heavy Knights, Knights, Infantry, Pikemen and Archers across the battlefield.

The Battlefield Every battle is different thanks to the modular landscape system. Rocks and Bushes change the battlefield before every game, creating new tactical situations, defensive positions, bottlenecks and opportunities for cavalry charges. No two battles are ever the same.

The Battle Begins Two armies face each other. One fights for the Crown. The other fights to seize it. Launch powerful cavalry charges, hold the line with disciplined Pikemen, weaken the enemy with Archers and exploit every breakthrough. Destroying enemy units is only the beginning.

Featuring the innovative Bonus Move System Every successful attack or defence immediately reshapes the battlefield. Victories generate Bonus Moves, allowing breakthroughs, counter-attacks and rapid advances that keep the battle constantly changing. The front line is always alive.

Reinforcements or Safety? Will you push deep into enemy territory to earn valuable reinforcements? Or will you protect your King and Constable while waiting for the perfect opportunity? Every decision has consequences.

Dramatic Endgames As the battlefield opens, daring coups de main and unexpected attacks against the enemy commanders can completely reverse the outcome of the battle. Only the boldest commanders will claim the kingdom.

The Duke and the King was created in Italy by an independent designer with a passion for both historical art and tactical games. Every illustration has been carefully restored and adapted from the public-domain Codex Manesse, combining historical authenticity with a distinctive visual style.

—description from the publisher