Defender of the Crown (USA)

Defender of the Crown (NES) is a strategy action game set in medieval England, where players take on the role of one of four Saxon lords vying to unite the kingdom after the king's death. The primary objective is to conquer all opposing castles and reclaim the throne.

Gameplay is divided into various activities. On the overworld map, players move their armies to attack enemy territories or defend their own. Resource management is a crucial part: you need to collect taxes to maintain your military, recruit different troop types such as knights, infantry, archers, and catapults. Food is also a factor that needs attention to prevent your army from weakening.

Battles occur in several forms. When attacking a castle, players can use catapults to destroy walls before their troops storm in. Jousting tournaments are a significant mini-game where players control their knight in one-on-one combat to win land, money, or fame. Additionally, players can undertake raiding missions into enemy castles to plunder gold and resources, or even rescue a kidnapped princess. Rescuing a princess can lead to marriage and the formation of strategic alliances.

While the NES version features some simplifications compared to the original Amiga release, it still retains the spirit of a grand strategy game with engaging action elements. Players need to plan carefully, manage resources effectively, and fight wisely to become the sole ruler of England.