In standard chess theory, it is very strongly recommended to castle, and to castle early (usually within the first ten moves, unless an especially sharp attack is possible), as a matter of king protection as well as developing and uniting the rooks. I am curious to hear if anyone has any strong opinions about castling in gothic, especially in terms of king protection and when in the game it is best to castle.

At this point I am under the impression that, with the number of heavy pieces surrounding the king at the start of the game, the king is perfectly safe for some time right where he is...castling early moves the king away from a pretty solid defense in the starting position. It has felt most natural to me and I have had more success when castling after move 15, usually somewhere between 17 and 22. In games where I castle before move 10, I struggle. (note to self: don't castle before move 10).

Anyone else with any ideas on this?