Play Defender Of The Crown (dos) Online

Defender of the Crown is a strategy game released in 1987 for the MS-DOS platform. Developed by Master Designer Software and published by Mindscape, it is set in medieval England during a period of conflict following the death of the king and the theft of the crown. The player assumes the first-person perspective of one of four Saxon knights navigating a land divided between Saxon and Norman factions.

The player begins with control of a single castle and a small force of soldiers. The primary objective is to build a larger army, conquer additional territories across England, and ultimately defeat the three rival Norman lords. Progression is structured around managing resources, raising troops, and engaging in strategic battles to seize control of the map. Players must also navigate alliances and conflicts with other Saxon knights, who can become adversaries. The core gameplay systems involve turn-based strategic planning for territory control and real-time tactical battles when armies clash.

Beyond the central conquest mechanics, the game includes several distinct events that influence a player's campaign. These optional activities allow for different strategic approaches. A player can enter a jousting tournament, a skill-based contest where the goal is to unhorse an opponent to win rewards such as fame or land. Another option is to launch a raid on an enemy castle, which can yield loot or, through securing a marriage alliance with a princess, result in the unification of territories. These systems provide additional layers to the overall strategic experience.