King of the Bridge – Video Review (KyotoCrank)

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• DEVELOPER: Finn Schuuring
• PUBLISHER: Finn Schuuring
• PLATFORMS: PC
• GENRE: Strategy
• RELEASE DATE: March 8, 2024
• INITIAL PRICE: €2.99
• REVIEWED VERSION: PC

King of the Bridge is a game that simulates a home-brewed version of chess, where you face a Troll while trying to cross the bridge he is guarding. Although the puzzles in this game are often dull, the Troll will try to add some fun by creating extra rules. Be careful, though, as he will occasionally try to trick you, but if you manage to expose him correctly, you might even be able to trick him yourself.

Visuals

This game is illustrated with 2D pixel graphics, and the green color palette gives it a vintage retro feel. The developer did a good job designing the chess pieces so they are easily distinguishable from one another, and everything on the user interface is clear and readable.

Music and Sound Design

The musical background in this game is not varied; there is only one song that constantly repeats. Although it’s quite subtle, I barely noticed it, which suits me well in a game that requires concentration. Too much noise would only distract me.

Gameplay Mechanics

In the game, placing pieces is done by dragging and dropping them to the desired spot within the frame of the rules. However, be careful because the Troll knows the rules well; if you break one, you immediately lose the game. It’s important to carefully monitor his moves because, if he breaks a rule, you have an opportunity to accuse him. To do this, select the piece that broke the rule and the rule that was broken. However, an unjustified accusation results in you losing the game.

As you play more games with the Troll, he will reveal many of his obscure rules. It’s impossible to avoid accidentally breaking a rule you didn’t know about; fortunately, the Troll will then warn you and explain that rule. He will also sometimes make a move that you might not have known you could make, which will reveal another additional rule of the game to you.

I won’t spoil all the rules; part of the charm of this game is the interaction and discovery.

Conclusions

If you enjoy chess or strategy games, you should definitely consider this game. It also has a humorous approach, so it’s not just regular chess. Moreover, at a price of only €3, this is a real opportunity to try out a nice little game. I’m sure I’ll be coming back to this game long after I finish the review.