This classic set originally sold for $22 back in 1988. Now it generally goes for $45-85 used. Unlike most sets in the Castle theme, it’s not a fortress or siege weapon. Instead the set focuses on a medieval tournament. We bought our set used, and it is missing a few parts and the box, but other than that is complete.
It comes with a single instructions manual, 8 well equipped minifigures and 2 horses with printed bardings. The parts included are mainly in bright colors, blue, red, green, and yellow, though there are some more neutral tones included too.
The biggest attraction for most builders, are the numerous figs. The set includes a good variety with 2 knights, 4 foot soldiers, and 2 civilians including a noble lady. There are plenty of accessories to equip them with as well, including a blue and red classic plastic cape (only the red is shown). The printed bardings are also desirable and add to the tournament atmosphere.
The build starts with the pavilion for spectators.
Simple enough in design and quite festive looking.
It is capped off by two white hexagonal domes which then have 2 yellow 2x2x2 cones added. The domes are very useful parts and work well for the roof here.
The front wall continues the red, blue, and yellow motif.
Every tournament needs a good selection of weapons for the competitors, so there’s a rack included with extra spears, swords, and even an bow and quiver.
Next the ’tilt’ (dividing fence) between jousters is assembled.
A table holding a barrel with tap, flag, and cups finishes off the set. There should be a white cup in the second yellow clip, but we were missing that part.
Since there were no brick modified with stud back then, the designers used headlight bricks on their backs to attach the barrels.
Let the joust begin! Will the Crusader Knight or Black Knight prove victorious?
Each knight also has a squire to help handle their equipment and prepare them for their bouts.
While not an overly large or detailed set, Knight’s Challenge still has a lot of charm with its bright cheery look and numerous figs to act out different scenarios with. Even at today’s prices it’s not a terrible buy, as the figs (without weapons and shields) and horses (with bardings) alone are valued at $37 used.
What are your thoughts on this classic set?
Love it! I made an updated version of this for the MA 🙂