When the trailer for Kingmakers, the new “action/strategy sandbox” game from Redemption Road Games, first appeared, the large-scale medieval battles were certainly eye-catching. For fans of medieval combat scenarios, reminiscent of games like Mount and Blade, Kingmakers seemed like it could offer a fresh and engaging experience. The sheer scale of simulated warfare in a medieval setting promised exciting gameplay.
Then the trailer took an unexpected turn, revealing the truly unique premise of Kingmakers. This isn’t just another medieval warfare simulator. You don’t step into the boots of a typical 14th-century knight. Instead, prepare for a wild twist – you are a time traveler, armed with 21st-century weaponry, crashing into the medieval period. To truly grasp the sheer absurdity and fun of it, you really need to see it in action.
The concept is undeniably juvenile, and perhaps that’s part of its charm. Witnessing a modern pickup truck obliterate ranks of medieval soldiers is both ridiculous and undeniably entertaining. It’s like watching a historical debate play out in the most chaotic and over-the-top way possible. This game doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s precisely why it’s generating buzz.
As a lone operative from the future, your mission in Kingmakers is to shake things up in medieval England to alter the course of history. Your arsenal is far from medieval; think assault rifles, shotguns, grenade launchers, armored SUVs, bikes, attack helicopters, and even air strikes. Imagine deploying these modern tools against thousands of swordsmen in massive battles, playable in single-player or up to four-player co-op.
While melee combat might have a place, Kingmakers leans heavily into third-person shooter territory. The developers themselves cite inspiration from games like Deep Rock Galactic and World War Z. This comparison makes perfect sense. The gameplay dynamic of a heavily armed modern soldier facing hordes of medieval warriors mirrors the intense, horde-based action found in zombie and alien bug games, such as Deep Rock Galactic, Left 4 Dead, or Helldivers 2. The trailer showcases exactly this kind of exhilarating, overwhelming combat.
(Image credit: Redemption Road Games)
(Image credit: Redemption Road Games)
(Image credit: Redemption Road Games)
Beyond the action-packed combat, Kingmakers incorporates strategic elements. Players can switch to an overhead perspective during battles to command platoons and construct fortifications. Up to four players can each lead their own armies, coordinating strategies to conquer castles and defend key strongholds. This blend of direct action and strategic command adds depth to the gameplay, ensuring it’s more than just mindless shooting.
Kingmakers is slated to enter early access in 2024, but eager players won’t have to wait that long. Redemption Road Games plans to conduct playtests and demos prior to the early access launch. Those interested in experiencing this unique time travel medieval game are encouraged to follow Kingmakers on Steam to stay informed about upcoming opportunities to play and the latest development updates.
