The Horde is set in a medieval-style village where you play as Chauncey, a serving lad tasked with protecting his monarch from being choked on his meal. The King rewards you with Grimthwacker , a magical sword, and a village to defend, which becomes the mission to go forth and prosper by felling waves of Hordlings. These enemies are bent on eating everything in the province, and your success is measured by how many villagers and crops survive each season's attacks.
The game involves defending villagers, crops, and cows from various types of Hordlings, each with their unique style of attacking. As you improve at defending, you become better equipped to tackle bigger challenges and gain favor from the King. However, this also increases the enmity from the evil High Chancellor.