If you’re a fan of tile-laying games, chances are you’ve come across Kingdomino at some point. It’s a brilliant, family-friendly game that takes the simple joy of dominoes and adds a layer of kingdom-building strategy. But what if you’re looking for something just as clever but built for two? That’s where Kingdomino Duel comes in—a reimagined version designed specifically for head-to-head competition. And let me tell you, it’s a cracking little game.
Quick Facts About Kingdomino Duel
- Players: 2
- Playtime: 20–30 minutes
- Publisher: Blue Orange Games
- Designer: Bruno Cathala & Ludovic Maublanc
- Type of Game: Roll-and-write, tile placement
How Do You Play Kingdomino Duel?
At its core, Kingdomino Duel keeps the spirit of the original game but swaps tiles for dice. Here’s how it works:
- Roll the Dice – Each turn, four custom dice are rolled, featuring different coats of arms and special abilities.
- Drafting – The starting player picks one die, then the opponent takes two, and the first player takes the remaining die. This creates a domino-like pair.
- Placing Your ‘Domino’ – Players add their dice pair to their personal kingdom grid, following simple placement rules (at least one side must match an adjacent territory).
- Gaining Abilities – Some dice feature crosses, which act as multipliers for scoring. Others grant access to spells, which provide game-changing abilities.
- Scoring Points – At the end of the game, points are calculated based on connected territories and their multipliers.
It sounds simple, but trust me, the choices get tense quickly. You’ll often be torn between taking the best dice for yourself or drafting strategically to block your opponent. It’s got that perfect mix of accessibility and depth.
What’s in the Box?
Despite being a compact game, Kingdomino Duel comes with everything needed for a full-fledged battle of wits:
- 4 custom dice (with different coat-of-arms symbols)
- 2 score sheets (one for kingdoms, one for tracking special spells)
- 2 pencils (because what’s a roll-and-write without them?)
- Rulebook (which is refreshingly easy to follow)
It’s small, portable, and perfect for throwing in a bag for game nights, holidays, or even pub sessions.
Playing at Different Player Counts? Wait… There’s Only Two!
Unlike its predecessor, Kingdomino Duel is strictly a two-player game, meaning there’s no solo or multiplayer option. But honestly, that’s part of its charm. It’s an intense, head-to-head duel where every choice directly affects your opponent. If you love tight, strategic battles in a short playtime, this one is spot on.
How Does It Compare to Kingdomino?
If you’re wondering how Kingdomino Duel stacks up against the original, here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Kingdomino | Kingdomino Duel |
|---|---|---|
| Players | 2–4 | 2 |
| Tile Type | Domino tiles | Custom dice |
| Scoring | Crowns as multipliers | Crosses as multipliers |
| Mechanics | Tile-laying | Roll-and-write |
| Drafting | Picking tiles | Choosing dice |
| Game Length | ~15–20 mins | ~20–30 mins |
Both games share a familiar kingdom-building mechanic, but Kingdomino Duel introduces a bit more tactical blocking and spell-based twists. If you love the original, it’s definitely worth giving this version a go.
Digital Versions – Can You Play Kingdomino Duel Online?
Yes! If you want to play remotely or just fancy a digital alternative, Kingdomino Duel is available on Board Game Arena (BGA). The online version does a great job of automating scoring and keeping things smooth. Plus, it’s an easy way to try before you buy!
Expansions – Are There Any?
Unlike Kingdomino, which has had a few expansions like Age of Giants, there aren’t any expansions for Kingdomino Duel (yet). Given the game’s simplicity and self-contained nature, it doesn’t necessarily need one—but who knows what the future holds?
Final Thoughts – Is Kingdomino Duel Worth It?
If you’re looking for a fast, portable, and brainy two-player game, Kingdomino Duel is a fantastic choice. It keeps the charm of the original while offering a fresh take that feels both familiar and new. Plus, the dice drafting adds just enough player interaction to keep things spicy. Whether you’re a Kingdomino veteran or just dipping your toes into roll-and-write games, this one’s well worth checking out.