The power progression usually makes it engaging. For example, in 'The Legendary Mechanic', the main character gradually builds his influence and power in a new world, and as his kingdom grows, so does his strength. It's exciting to see how he overcomes challenges.
The characters are crucial. You need heroes, villains, and all sorts of supporting characters. The heroes should have noble qualities and face challenges. Villains should be menacing. Also, the history of the kingdom matters. Was it founded by a great hero in the past? Or did it rise from the ashes of an old civilization? This gives depth to the story. And the flora and fauna of the kingdom, like magical beasts and enchanted plants, can make the world more interesting.
First, create a unique and vivid setting for your kingdom. Describe its geography, climate, and main cities in detail. Second, develop interesting characters like the king, knights, and wizards. Give them distinct personalities and goals. Third, plan out a complex plot with political intrigue, battles, and magic elements. For example, a power struggle between different noble families in the kingdom can drive the story forward.
One key element is a strong and charismatic leader. This character drives the story forward with their vision for the kingdom and the world. Another is strategic warfare. Battles and military campaigns are crucial as they show how the kingdom expands. Also, political intrigue within the kingdom and among other kingdoms adds depth. For example, in 'Game of Thrones', there are many political power plays that shape the fate of the kingdoms.
In the novel, Sword Comes, there was a protagonist named Li Chungang who established his own kingdom called West Chu. Li Chungang was the villain in the novel. Through a series of means, he finally established his own kingdom and ruled the entire West Chu region. However, the process of establishing his kingdom was not smooth sailing. He needed to fight against other forces to establish his own kingdom.
One popular one is 'Overlord'. It features a powerful sorcerer who gets trapped in a game world and begins building his own kingdom. Another is 'Re:Monster' which has an interesting take on the isekai genre with the protagonist being reincarnated as a goblin and working towards building a great goblin kingdom. 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime' is also great. The slime protagonist gradually forms his own unique and powerful kingdom through various adventures and making allies.
One popular trope is the rise of an underdog protagonist. For example, a young peasant who discovers a hidden talent for leadership and gradually builds their own kingdom. Another is the magical element, like a kingdom built around a powerful magical artifact or a mage - led kingdom. Also, political intrigue within the kingdom - building process, such as rival factions vying for power, is quite common.
A lesser - known but very interesting kingdom building web novel is 'Reborn as a Barrier Master'. In this story, the protagonist uses his unique skills to protect and develop his land, which slowly evolves into a prosperous kingdom. The story focuses on how he overcomes challenges, from dealing with neighboring kingdoms to internal strife, all while building his own kingdom.
One great example is 'The Lord of the Rings' series. It has elaborate world - building with the kingdoms of Gondor and Rohan. Tolkien creates a rich tapestry of cultures, politics, and power struggles within these kingdoms. Another is 'A Song of Ice and Fire' which features numerous kingdoms vying for power. The complex political intrigues and the building of alliances and power bases in different kingdoms are fascinating.
One great kingdom building web novel is 'Release That Witch'. It has an interesting premise where the protagonist is transported to a medieval - like world and uses his modern knowledge to build a powerful kingdom. The character development is well - done, especially for the witches who play crucial roles in the kingdom's development.