The Dark Ages marked the beginning of the struggle for dominion of England. Metro 3D gives you the chance to take the throne in Cinemaware's classic strategy game Defender of the Crown.

Long Live the King

The king has passed away without an heir and a new ruler must be chosen to lead England out of a state of turmoil. Players must assume the role as leader of one of five different legions in a bid to rule the kingdom. To prove your worth, you must conquer all of England, one territory at a time.

Micro Medieval Management

Featuring turn-based strategic combat (think Risk), Defender of the Crown allows you to manage nearly every facet of your troops and supplies. Money is allotted based on the number of territories held at the end of each turn. Your funds must be spent wisely on soldiers, weaponry and large-scale assaults.

Be warned, though. The four computer-controlled factions will do anything in their power to assure that you never see the throne.

Jousting, Raiding & Rescuing...Oh, My!

Between turns, armies can engage in jousting tournaments for political and monetary gain. The actual jousting takes place from a first-person perspective with your character at the pommel of a mighty steed. Careful timing and aiming of your jousting lance will mean the difference between sweet victory and agonizing defeat. Even if you fall from your mount, you can still fight in hand-to-hand combat until a winner is decided.

If tournaments aren't for you, try your gauntleted hand at other fun tasks between turns. Nothing passes the time quite like laying siege to a castle or rescuing a fair damsel in distress. Keep in mind that any secondary quests you undertake ultimately affect your leadership abilities and funding.

The Perfect Mix of Brains & Brawn

Defender of the Crown plays like a veritable cornucopia of action sequences and strategic posturing. Both skills are required to prove your worth as ruler of all England. Are you up to the task?