King of Kings (Japan) (Namcot Collection)

King of Kings (Japan) is a turn-based strategy game for the NES, set in the ancient Middle East, drawing on events and figures from the Bible. Players choose one of four main powers: Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, or Israel. The primary objective is to unite the entire map under your control, typically through a combination of warfare, diplomacy, and economic development.

During each turn, players can perform various actions. The most crucial aspect is resource management. Gold is the primary currency, used for constructing buildings, recruiting armies, and other activities. Wheat serves as food for the populace and military. Players must balance production and consumption to avoid shortages.

The game map is divided into numerous territories. Each territory may contain cities, villages, or special resources. Players can construct different types of buildings within cities to boost resource production, defense, or research. For example, building farms to increase wheat, mines for gold, or temples to accumulate Faith Points.

Armies in King of Kings consist of various unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players can recruit basic units like infantry and cavalry, and later access more powerful units or heroes (such as Moses, Solomon, David, etc., depending on the faction and events). These units are used to attack opponent territories or defend one's own. When two armies clash, battles occur automatically or can be partially controlled by the player (depending on the version or specific mechanics).

Diplomacy plays a significant role. Players can propose alliances, declare war, or negotiate peace with other powers. Random events based on biblical narratives frequently occur, impacting gameplay, such as droughts, plagues, or the appearance of prophets, bringing benefits or disadvantages. Faith is a unique element; building temples and performing "righteous" actions can increase faith points, sometimes leading to Divine Intervention in the form of miracles that aid the player.

The game requires players to have a long-term strategic vision, balancing military expansion with economic development, and effectively managing relationships with other factions to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming the King of Kings.