Defender of the Crown

Defender of the Crown for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a strategic action game that was originally developed by Cinemaware and first released for home computers in 1986. The NES version was released in 1989 and was adapted to the technical capabilities of the console.

Defender of the Crown transports you to medieval England, shortly after the death of King Richard the Lionheart. As one of several Saxon lords, you fight for supremacy in a country that is mired in chaos and power struggles. Your goal: conquer the individual counties, defeat the enemy Normans and finally win the English crown.

The gameplay of Defender of the Crown combines turn-based strategy with action-packed mini-games. You manage castles, recruit troops, lead campaigns of conquest and can take part in tournaments. Special highlights are the siege of castles with catapults and the sword duel when you try to save an opposing princess.

The NES version of Defender of the Crown offers somewhat simpler visuals compared to the graphically more impressive computer version, but remains true to the core concept. The strategic demands are quite high by NES standards, making the game one of the few titles on the console to combine tactics and planning with action elements.

Defender of the Crown is a unique title in the NES catalog - atmospheric, varied and with a fascinating mix of strategy and knight adventures. It particularly appeals to players who like to put their strategic skills to the test alongside action.