ROYAL BLOOD

Released in 1991 by Koei, Royal Blood was the inaugural title in the company's "Imagination Game" series, marking their foray into original fantasy settings alongside their renowned historical simulations. The story follows a grand quest to defeat the tyrant King Ethelred, who holds dominion over the island nation of Ishmeria, and to reclaim a legendary crown embedded with six mystical jewels. Blending Koei's trademark strategic depth with classic fantasy tropes, the game captures the spirit of the era's strategy boom. Players are tasked with conquering 30 distinct territories, writing their own legendary tale through tactical governance and warfare.

Set in the island nation of Ishmeria—a land where swords, sorcery, and monsters coexist—the game tells the story of a struggle to overthrow the once-noble King Ethelred, who has transformed into a cruel tyrant. As a local lord, the player must seek the power of six mages sealed within the jewels of the "Royal Blood" crown to liberate the 30 territories of the realm. Inspired by the atmosphere of Celtic mythology, this grand strategy simulation challenges players to pacify a chaotic land and emerge as the true ruler of the kingdom.