Get ready to dive into one of the most intense periods of Iberian history! Almoravid: Reconquista and Riposte in Spain, 1085-1086 is the second volume in GMT Games' acclaimed Levy & Campaign series, bringing the chaos and politics of 11th-century Spain to your tabletop. On one side, King Alfonso VI of León and Castile seeks to consolidate power and seize Toledo. On the other, the fragmentation of the Muslim Taifa states triggers the fierce intervention of the Almoravid armies from Africa, aiming to roll back Christian advances.

The heart of the game lies not just in direct combat, but in logistics and feudal politics. You aren't just managing 'units'; you are managing lords and vassals who have their own interests, loyalties, and, crucially, limited service terms! Every 40 days on the in-game calendar, a new levy phase occurs, requiring you to ensure your nobles remain committed to the cause. Managing resources like provender, coins to extend service, and troop transport is vital to prevent your campaign from collapsing before the fighting even starts.

Battles are tense and demand careful planning. You'll use command cards to activate your lords in a sequence that can become a nightmare if your timing is off, effectively simulating the communication struggles of the medieval era. Combat involves arranging your lords into lines of battle and reserves to attempt to rout the enemy. Whether you are navigating Moorish fortifications or controlling supply routes, Almoravid offers a deep simulation where politics and logistics are just as dangerous as the edge of a sword. It is a heavy, rewarding experience for those who love history and the weight of strategic decision-making.