Camelot

About this board game

Camelot is a two-player strategy game with an approximately 15-minute playing time, released in 1930. Its objective is direct: move two of your pieces into your opponent’s goal, or eliminate all of your opponent’s pieces.

The rules are designed to be learned quickly, introducing three defining moves: the Jump, the Capture, and the Power Play. Once these fundamentals are understood, the challenge lies in choosing how to use them. Play courageously or cautiously, but remain alert—one move can rapidly change the entire complexion of the game.

Camelot began as Chivalry, a game self-published by George S. Parker in 1888, who called it his favorite game. In 1930, it was scaled down, renamed Camelot, and published by Parker Brothers. Minor rule changes followed in 1931.

Under current World Camelot Federation rules, one of the game’s objectives is to capture all of the opponent’s pieces while retaining two or more of your own. This adds a precise condition to the battle for control and highlights the importance of protecting your remaining pieces as well as attacking.

• Players: 2
• Playing time: 15 minutes
• Core objectives: reach the opponent’s goal with two pieces or eliminate the opponent’s pieces
• Key moves: the Jump, the Capture, and the Power Play

With simple goals and room for sharply contrasting approaches, Camelot turns each move into a potential turning point.