Achieve smoky perfection and sear delicious meals with a budget-friendly option. The quest for the best affordable charcoal grill often involves balancing robust construction with excellent heat retention. Many home chefs seek that authentic, wood-fired taste without a significant investment, making the selection of a quality charcoal grill paramount.
Understanding the nuances of grate material, airflow control, and lid design is crucial for unlocking unparalleled barbecue results. Exploring the top contenders for the best affordable charcoal grill reveals innovative features that elevate backyard cooking.
If you’re ready to upgrade your grilling game without breaking the bank, delve into our curated list of the best affordable charcoal grills to find the perfect addition to your patio.
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1. Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking
Craving perfectly grilled flavors without breaking the bank? The Gas One 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill offers an exceptional outdoor cooking experience, blending compact portability with impressive heat control. It’s the ideal companion for spontaneous backyard cookouts or adventurous camping trips, delivering delicious results with ease.
It’s the ideal companion for spontaneous backyard cookouts or adventurous camping trips, delivering delicious results with ease.
This compact charcoal grill boasts a 150-square-inch cooking surface, perfect for steaks, burgers, or vegetables. Its superior construction ensures even heat distribution for uniform cooking. The innovative 3-point locking lid functions like a smoker, trapping heat for tender, flavorful results and providing secure transport for your grilling adventures.
The innovative 3-point locking lid functions like a smoker, trapping heat for tender, flavorful results and providing secure transport for your grilling adventures.
Pros
- Even Cooking & Smoker-Like Results: The 3-point locking lid effectively seals in heat, mimicking convection cooking for uniformly cooked, flavorful food reminiscent of slow-smoked BBQ.
- Optimal Airflow Management: Features a dual ventilation system designed to maintain consistent airflow, crucial for achieving and sustaining the ideal temperature for perfectly grilled meals.
- Unmatched Portability and Convenience: Its lightweight, compact design makes this portable charcoal grill incredibly easy to move to your patio, campsite, or any outdoor gathering spot.
- Clean Grilling Experience: Equipped with a convenient built-in ash catcher to minimize mess and simplify cleanup after your barbecue session.
- Durable Construction: Built with quality materials for reliable performance and longevity, making it a dependable choice for your outdoor grilling needs.
Cons
- Limited cooking space for very large gatherings; ideal for smaller groups or individuals.
For those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing portable grill, the Gas One 14-inch model is a standout choice. It’s perfectly suited for individuals or small families who enjoy delicious grilled food at home or on the go, offering a fantastic value for its features.
2. Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Charcoal Grill, 22‑Inch, Black – Portable
Unlock the full potential of outdoor cooking with the Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Charcoal Grill. This portable powerhouse delivers exceptional grilling performance, robust construction, and user-friendly features, making it an ideal companion for backyard BBQs, camping trips, and tailgating events. Experience the authentic charcoal flavor and superior results you expect from Weber.
Engineered for durability and optimal heat management, the Weber Jumbo Joe Premium features a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl that resist rust and peeling while retaining consistent temperatures. Its plated steel cooking grate offers a resilient surface for all your grilling needs, from searing steaks to slow-roasting vegetables.
Enjoy precise temperature control thanks to the rust-resistant aluminum dampers, ensuring perfect results every time on this 22-inch portable charcoal grill.
Pros
- Durable Construction: The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are built to withstand high heat and resist rust and peeling, ensuring long-lasting performance for your backyard grill.
- Enhanced Grilling Control: Rust-resistant aluminum dampers allow for precise airflow regulation, giving you mastery over cooking temperatures for perfectly grilled food.
- Convenient Ash Management: The integrated aluminum ash catcher simplifies cleanup, making disposal quick and effortless after your charcoal grilling sessions.
- User-Friendly Design: A lid hook keeps the lid off the ground during use, and the heat-shielded handle ensures safe and comfortable handling for checking your barbecue.
- Exceptional Portability: Equipped with all-weather wheels, this portable charcoal grill is easy to move around your patio, campsite, or tailgate, offering flexibility for outdoor cooking.
- Ample Cooking Space: The 22-inch cooking grate provides enough room to grill up to thirteen burgers simultaneously, perfect for small gatherings and families.
Cons
- While portable, the 22-inch size might be considered bulky for very tight car spaces compared to smaller travel grates.
The Weber Jumbo Joe Premium Charcoal Grill stands out as a reliable and portable outdoor cooking solution. Its solid build and thoughtful features provide an excellent grilling experience for enthusiasts seeking authentic charcoal flavor.
3. Weber Smokey Joe 14″ Charcoal Grill – Portable Compact Charcoal
Unlock delicious, smoky flavor wherever adventure calls with the Weber Smokey Joe 14 Charcoal Grill. This compact and portable grill is your perfect companion for backyard BBQs, camping trips, and beach outings, delivering classic grilling taste without the bulk.
Experience the ease of outdoor cooking with its durable porcelain-enamel finish and thoughtful features like the Tuck-N-Carry lid lock. The Smokey Joe’s superior heat retention ensures perfectly cooked meals, while its efficient design makes cleanup a breeze, transforming any space into a grilling station.
Pros
- Ultimate Portability: Perfectly sized and lightweight for easy transport, making it an ideal choice for tailgating, camping, and small patios where space is limited.
- Durable Construction: The porcelain-enamel coating resists scratches and rust, ensuring longevity and maintaining its aesthetic appeal through countless grilling sessions.
- Convenient Cleanup: Features an integrated ash catcher that not only protects surfaces but also significantly simplifies the post-grilling tidying process.
- Efficient Cooking Space: While compact, it comfortably fits up to six burgers, offering ample cooking area for intimate gatherings and quick meals.
- Secure Lid Transport: The innovative Tuck-N-Carry lid lock system doubles as a convenient lid holder, preventing accidents and keeping your lid secure during travel.
Cons
- Due to its compact size, it’s best suited for smaller portions and may not be ideal for cooking large cuts of meat or hosting very large groups simultaneously.
The Weber Smokey Joe 14 is a superb option for those seeking a reliable, lightweight, and exceptionally portable charcoal grilling experience. It stands out as a fantastic value, proving you don’t need a large setup to enjoy genuine charcoal-grilled food.
4. Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill, 18‑Inch, Black – Lightweight Portable
Discover the perfect blend of portability and performance with the Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic charcoal grilling experience without sacrificing convenience, this compact yet capable grill delivers delicious smoky flavors for any adventure.
This 18-inch portable charcoal grill boasts a solid construction featuring a porcelain-enameled steel bowl and lid for durability and even heat distribution. Its substantial 240 square inch cooking area accommodates a good amount of food, making it ideal for small gatherings or solo cooks.
Pros
- Spacious Cooking Surface: The 18.5-inch diameter plated steel grate offers ample room to grill burgers, steaks, or vegetables for small groups, providing excellent value for its size.
- Durable and Easy to Clean: The porcelain-enameled finish on both the bowl and lid ensures longevity and resilience against the elements, while the removable aluminum ash catcher simplifies post-grill cleanup.
- Enhanced Portability: Engineered for outdoor living, its lightweight design and sturdy construction make it an excellent choice for picnics, camping trips, and beach outings, truly embodying the compact grill spirit.
- Intuitive Temperature Control: Rust-resistant aluminum dampers allow for precise airflow management, crucial for achieving the perfect sear or slow-cooked flavor, a signature of quality charcoal grilling.
Cons
- Basic Configuration: With a single grate and one main burner (fueled by charcoal), advanced grilling techniques like direct/indirect heat zoning require careful charcoal arrangement.
Priced at a competitive $89, the Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill stands out as a fantastic option for those seeking an affordable, reliable, and highly portable charcoal grilling solution. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or new to the world of charcoal, this grill offers an authentic outdoor cooking experience that’s easy to enjoy anywhere.
5. Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker |
Elevate your backyard barbecues with the Royal Gourmet CC1830S, a robust charcoal grill and offset smoker designed to deliver exceptional flavor and a versatile cooking experience. This comprehensive setup provides ample space and precise temperature control, making it the ideal choice for aspiring grill masters and seasoned pitmasters alike seeking a reliable and feature-rich addition to their outdoor kitchen.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S offers an expansive 823 square inches of total cooking surface, including a substantial 475 sq. in.
primary grilling area and a convenient 151 sq. in. warming rack, plus an additional 197 sq.
in. from the integrated offset smoker.
Master your cooking with the adjustable charcoal pan, allowing for easy heat level management, and monitor your results with the integrated lid thermometer for perfect results every time. The sturdy construction and thoughtful design, including convenient side tables and a bottom shelf, ensure a seamless grilling process.
Pros
- Versatile Cooking Options: Enjoy the dual functionality of a primary charcoal grill and an offset smoker, perfect for achieving authentic smoky flavors and a variety of cooking techniques.
- Impressive Cooking Area: The generous 823 square inches of cooking space across multiple racks and the smoker allows for large gatherings and preparation of substantial meals.
- Precise Temperature Control: The adjustable charcoal pan and built-in lid thermometer provide excellent control over cooking temperatures, crucial for perfecting different cuts of meat and vegetables.
- Convenient Features: Ample workspace with front and side tables, “S” hooks for tool storage, a tool holder, and a removable charcoal pan simplify the grilling process and cleanup.
Cons
- Bottom Shelf Weight Capacity: The bottom shelf has a specified weight limit of 20 lb., which may require careful consideration for storing larger or heavier accessories.
For those seeking a feature-packed and affordable charcoal grill that combines potent smoking capabilities with classic grilling, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S stands out. Its combination of size, control, and user-friendly features makes it a perfect centerpiece for any outdoor cooking enthusiast looking to enhance their BBQ game without breaking the bank.
6. Weber Go‑Anywhere Charcoal Grill – Compact Portable BBQ Grill for
Craving that authentic smoky flavor wherever adventure calls? The Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill is your perfect compact companion, delivering delicious grilled meals without the bulk.
Engineered for portability and performance, this efficient rectangular grill boasts a 2-piece cooking grate that allows for easy charcoal replenishment. Its thoughtful design facilitates convenient carrying, packing, and storage, fitting seamlessly into your active lifestyle. The spacious grilling surface comfortably handles portions for 2-4 people, while the Char-rail insert promotes effective indirect cooking, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time.
Pros
- Exceptional portability thanks to its lightweight construction and compact, rectangular profile, making it an ideal travel grill.
- Versatile cooking options, including direct heat with its primary cooking method, adaptable for various grilling recipes and outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- User-friendly design with a 2-piece cooking grate for convenient charcoal access and a Char-rail insert for optimized indirect heat, enhancing your charcoal grilling.
- Sufficient grilling area for small groups (2-4 people), proving that a small charcoal grill can still be highly functional for picnics and tailgating.
Cons
- The single-level grill configuration, while efficient for its size, may present limitations for those needing to cook larger quantities or multiple food types simultaneously.
For anyone seeking a high-quality, portable charcoal grill that doesn’t compromise on flavor or convenience, the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill is an outstanding choice. It truly embodies the essence of a small charcoal grill that’s perfect for small-scale outdoor cooking, offering a satisfying grilling experience for casual users and seasoned grill masters alike.
7. Joyfair Portable Charcoal Grill with Thermometer, Small Tabletop Barbecue Grill
Discover the Joyfair Portable Charcoal Grill, your ideal companion for spontaneous outdoor cooking adventures. This compact tabletop barbecue grill offers exceptional value, combining robust construction with user-friendly features for delicious grilled meals anywhere you go. Experience the convenience of real grilling on a smaller scale.
Experience the convenience of real grilling on a smaller scale.
Crafted with upgraded powder spraying technology, this durable charcoal grill resists rust and peeling even at high temperatures up to 800℉. Its extra-thick steel ensures long-lasting sturdiness, making it a reliable choice for numerous backyard barbecues and patio cooking sessions. Enjoy authentic smoky flavors with this efficient portable grill.
Pros
- Superior Durability & Rust Resistance: Featuring advanced powder spraying technology, this small charcoal grill is built to withstand high heat (750-800℉) and resist rusting, cracking, and peeling for extended use, offering a superb value for its price point.
- Effortless Portability & Assembly: The innovative cylindrical design and included screwdriver allow for quick, fuss-free assembly within 10 minutes, making it easy to transport in your car for spontaneous picnics or camping trips.
- Precise Temperature Control: A built-in lid thermometer and adjustable side vents allow for real-time temperature monitoring and management without lifting the lid, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time. A vertical chimney enhances heat circulation for juicy results.
- Compact Yet Capable Cooking Area: With a 13.5’’x8.8’’ cooking area, it’s perfectly sized for 1-3 people, ideal for grilling burgers, steaks, bacon, and kebabs. The chrome-plated stainless steel grill rack is non-stick and easy to clean.
- Enhanced Stability & Safety Features: The triangular structure provides excellent stability on various surfaces, while the anti-scald wooden handle and upgraded, secure latch ensure safe and easy operation and transport.
Cons
- The cooking area is limited, making it less suitable for larger gatherings or grilling for more than three people at once compared to a full-size backyard grill.
The Joyfair Portable Charcoal Grill is an excellent choice for individuals or small families seeking a reliable and convenient grilling solution for patios, camping, or tailgating. Its thoughtful design and robust build provide a fantastic grilling experience without breaking the bank, making it a standout option among affordable charcoal grills for sale.
8. Royal Gourmet CC1830 28 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming
Elevate your backyard grilling experience with the Royal Gourmet CC1830 Barrel Charcoal Grill. This robust cooker delivers impressive capacity and exceptional heat control, making it the ideal choice for anyone seeking consistently delicious results for their outdoor feasts.
Boasting a generous 626 square inch total cooking area, including a 475 sq. in.
in. warming rack, this 28-inch barrel charcoal grill is perfect for entertaining.
Its thoughtful design prioritizes user convenience, from adjustable heat management to integrated tool storage.
Pros
- Ample 626 sq. in. cooking space, featuring porcelain-enameled grates and a chrome-plated warming rack, easily accommodates large cuts of meat for family gatherings and parties.
- Precise heat adjustment is achievable through the side air vent and smoke stack, allowing for perfect searing or slow-cooking of your favorite barbecue dishes.
- The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan provides superior control over cooking temperatures, ensuring food is cooked to your desired doneness.
- A convenient lid-mounted thermometer allows for real-time temperature monitoring, eliminating guesswork and guaranteeing perfectly cooked meals every time.
- The sturdy side shelf with integrated hooks offers valuable space for organizing grilling tools, spices, and platters, keeping your essential accessories within easy reach.
- Effortless portability is granted by two heavy-duty wheels, enabling you to easily move the grill across your patio or backyard.
Cons
- As with most charcoal grills, assembly may require a moderate amount of time and effort.
For those looking for a reliable and versatile charcoal grill without breaking the bank, the Royal Gourmet CC1830 offers a compelling blend of performance and practicality. This affordable charcoal grill is a welcome addition to any backyard chef’s arsenal, promising countless delicious outdoor meals.
9. Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Wood-Painted Side
Elevate your backyard grilling experience without breaking the bank with the Royal Gourmet CC1830V Barrel Charcoal Grill. This stylish and functional barbecue master offers ample cooking space and robust heat control features, making it an ideal choice for aspiring grill enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability. Discover the joy of perfectly smoked meats and delicious grilled vegetables.
The CC1830V boasts an expansive 443 square inch primary cooking area, complemented by a 184 square inch warming rack, ensuring you can easily cater to gatherings of all sizes. Its innovative design incorporates adjustable fire grates for precise temperature management and a convenient ash pan for effortless cleanup.
Experience superior heat retention and consistent results with this charcoal cooking essential.
Pros
- Generous Cooking Surface: The substantial 443 sq. in. of primary cooking space, coupled with an 184 sq. in. warming rack, easily accommodates large cuts of meat and multiple dishes simultaneously.
- Precise Heat Control: Easily manage cooking temperatures with the adjustable fire grates for height customization, a lid-mounted temperature gauge for monitoring, and an adjustable exhaust vent to regulate airflow and heat.
- Effortless Cleanup: The integrated easy-dump ash pan simplifies the post-grilling process, allowing for quick and mess-free removal of ashes.
- Added Convenience: Features like the front and side tables, along with a tool holder, provide practical space for food preparation and utensil organization, enhancing the overall grilling experience for any outdoor chef.
- Durable Design: While offering excellent value, this barrel grill provides a sturdy and functional solution for charcoal grilling enthusiasts.
Cons
- Assembly may require a moderate level of effort, and some users might find the material durability slightly less robust compared to higher-priced, heavy-duty models.
For anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich charcoal grill without a significant investment, the Royal Gourmet CC1830V stands out. It’s perfect for weekend barbecues, family gatherings, and mastering your favorite grilled recipes.
Enjoy the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal grilling with a unit that balances performance and affordability.
10. Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black – Outdoor
Discover the ultimate outdoor cooking experience with the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill. This iconic black kettle grill, in its 22-inch size, is engineered for both aspiring grill masters and seasoned barbecue enthusiasts seeking exceptional flavor and unwavering durability. Elevate your backyard cookouts with this classic yet feature-rich charcoal BBQ.
Boasting a spacious cooking area capable of accommodating up to 13 burgers, this grill features a robust, plated steel cooking grate designed for longevity. The innovative One-Touch cleaning system, complete with a high-capacity ash catcher, simplifies post-grilling cleanup, making it an ideal choice for convenient outdoor cooking. Experience superior heat retention and even cooking thanks to its porcelain-enameled lid and bowl.
Experience superior heat retention and even cooking thanks to its porcelain-enameled lid and bowl.
Pros
- Ample Cooking Space & Durability: Easily grill for a crowd with enough room for 13 burgers, all while benefiting from a heavy-duty plated steel grate that withstands repeated use.
- Effortless Ash Management: The integrated One-Touch cleaning system and removable aluminized ash catcher make disposing of charcoal ash quick and hassle-free, promoting tidier grilling sessions.
- Superior Heat Control & Flavor: The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl not only resist rust and peeling but also provide excellent heat retention, contributing to that authentic smoky charcoal grill flavor.
- Built-in Temperature Monitoring: The integrated lid thermometer eliminates guesswork, allowing precise control over your grilling temperatures for perfectly cooked meats and vegetables every time.
- User-Friendly Design: Features like glass-reinforced nylon handles, rust-resistant aluminum dampers for airflow control, an angled lid hook, and all-weather wheels enhance usability and convenience for any backyard chef.
Cons
- As a charcoal grill, it requires more hands-on attention and time to reach optimal cooking temperatures compared to gas grilling options.
The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is a fantastic investment for anyone who appreciates the distinct taste only a charcoal barbecue can provide. Its combination of traditional design, modern convenience features, and robust construction makes it an outstanding and best affordable charcoal grill option for creating delicious outdoor meals.
Your Guide to the Best Affordable Charcoal Grill
Grill size and capacity
The dimensions and cooking area of a charcoal grill dictate its serving potential and adaptability.
Determining how many people you typically serve is paramount; a compact grill with a smaller grate is ideal for individuals or couples dining in smaller outdoor spaces, fitting easily onto balconies or patios. Conversely, for avid entertainers or larger families needing to produce ample food for gatherings, a grill with an expansive grilling surface area is essential, allowing you to cook multiple items simultaneously. Look for grills specifying their cooking surface in square inches – a common range for smaller models might be 150-250 sq.
Look for grills specifying their cooking surface in square inches – a common range for smaller models might be 150-250 sq. in., while larger units can exceed 400 sq.
in., providing significant room for steaks, burgers, and vegetables.
When evaluating capacity, consider not just the width and depth of the main grate but also any secondary warming racks, which add valuable, albeit indirect, cooking space. Understanding these measurements will ensure your chosen model can comfortably handle your usual meal prep, from weeknight dinners for two to weekend BBQs for a crowd, without leaving you scrambling for more space.
Material and durability
The quality of materials and the engineering of a barbecue’s construction are the bedrock of its longevity and consistent performance.
A robust build ensures your grilling companion can withstand the rigors of regular use, from intense heat to exposure to the elements, without succumbing to premature wear. This directly translates to fewer repairs and replacements, offering better value over time.
Look for grills constructed with thicker gauge steel, as this offers superior structural integrity and better heat retention. A high-quality finish, often a porcelain enamel or a durable powder coating, is essential for rust resistance, preventing unsightly and damaging corrosion. The lid, frequently opened and closed, should feature sturdy hinges that won’t warp or break.
Furthermore, the cooking grates themselves, bearing the brunt of direct heat and food residue, should be made from durable materials like cast iron or thick-gauge stainless steel to resist warping and ensure even searing for years to come, rather than needing frequent replacement.
Temperature control and vents
Mastering heat management is key to successful outdoor cooking, and it hinges significantly on how effectively a grill allows you to regulate airflow. The strategic placement and design of vents directly dictate the oxygen supply, which in turn fuels the charcoal’s burn rate and influences the internal temperature of your cooking chamber.
For those aiming for perfectly seared steaks or slow-smoked ribs, understanding this dynamic is paramount. A well-designed damper system, often featuring adjustable top vents and lower intake vents, provides granular control. By opening or closing these dampers, you can fine-tune the amount of air reaching the coals.
More air means a hotter fire, ideal for searing, while restricted airflow leads to lower temperatures, perfect for delicate cooking or extending burn times. Look for grills with intuitive controls that allow for easy, precise adjustments, enabling you to maintain consistent temperatures for extended periods without constant guesswork, ultimately ensuring predictable and delicious results every time you fire it up.
Cleaning and maintenance
A grill’s longevity and your enjoyment of it crucially hinge on how simple it is to keep clean.
Effortless upkeep means more time spent savoring delicious grilled meals and less time wrestling with stubborn grease and ash. Consider features like integrated ash catcher systems, which collect debris for easy disposal, and removable grease trays that prevent messy buildup in the main cooking chamber. These elements significantly streamline the post-cook cleanup process, making it far less of a chore.
Furthermore, the type of grates plays a role in how easily they can be cleaned. While both enameled and porcelain-coated grates offer durability, their porous surfaces can affect how readily food residue adheres. Models designed with these factors in mind, prioritizing accessible components and smooth surfaces, generally offer superior overall ease of maintenance, ensuring your appliance remains in great condition and ready for your next barbecue.
Models designed with these factors in mind, prioritizing accessible components and smooth surfaces, generally offer superior overall ease of maintenance, ensuring your appliance remains in great condition and ready for your next barbecue.
Quick Best Affordable Charcoal Grill Buying Checklist
- Assess Your Space: Measure your patio or balcony before buying.
- Consider Capacity: How many burgers or steaks will you cook at once?
- Check Material Quality: Look for durable, rust-resistant steel.
- Understand Venting: Proper airflow is key for temperature control.
- Evaluate Cleaning: Ash catchers and removable parts save time.
- Read Reviews: See what other users say about performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Important Factor For An Affordable Charcoal Grill?
Temperature control and consistent heat are crucial for successful grilling, even on a budget.
Are Small Charcoal Grills Better For Beginners?
Yes, smaller grills are often easier to manage for temperature regulation and are less intimidating.
How Important Is The Build Material For A Cheap Charcoal Grill?
While cost-effective, ensure the material is at least decent quality to prevent rust and ensure longevity.
Can I Get Good Smoky Flavor From An Affordable Charcoal Grill?
Absolutely, the type of charcoal used and lump wood are key for flavor, not just the grill itself.
What Should I Look For In Terms Of Ease Of Use?
Consider easy-to-adjust vents, a simple ash disposal system, and a stable design.
Final Words
Finding the best affordable charcoal grill doesn’t mean sacrificing quality for price. These grills offer excellent versatility and flavor, bringing authentic BBQ taste to your backyard.
With a bit of research, you can secure a fantastic grilling companion that fits your budget and elevates your outdoor cooking game.