# Banish the Snakes: A Game of St. Patrick in Ireland

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2023
- **BGG Rating**: 7.2
- **BGG Rank**: #5080
- **Players**: 1-6 (Best with: 3)
- **Duration**: 90-120 min
- **Weight**: 2.58 / 5
- **Designers**: Jerry Shiles, Kevin McPartland
- **Artists**: Terry Leeds
- **Publishers**: GMT Games
- **Categories**: Ancient, Medieval, Political, Religious
- **Mechanics**: Area Majority / Influence, Cooperative Game, Solo / Solitaire Game

## Verdict
If you love history and teamwork, you’ll enjoy leading Saint Patrick’s mission.Well‑crafted cooperationRich historical settingVaried challengesLengthy rulebookMedium learning curveRECOMMENDED

## Description
Banish the Snakes: A Game of St. Patrick in Ireland transports players to 5th‑century Ireland, a time when the Roman Empire was collapsing and Christianity was just taking root. Each player takes on the role of a saint – Patrick and his companions – and works together to convert the pagans before the barbarians overwhelm Britain, severing the island’s link to the continent. The board shows a map of Ireland with its four modern provinces, populated by wooden blocks representing the People, Druids, Chiefs, Kings and the High King at Tara. Every round a card introduces a new event – from missionary ideas to historic figures like Neil of the Nine Hostages – and the severity of the challenge is tied to the previous card, ensuring no two games feel the same. A diagram tracks the decline of Roman Britain, adding tougher cards as more of the island falls to invaders. If the saints succeed, Christianity thrives, sparking a cultural bloom that later helps rescue European civilization; if they fail, paganism spreads across the West and history takes a darker turn. The game blends Area Majority/Influence control, full cooperation and solid solo rules, supporting 1‑6 players in 90‑120‑minute sessions. High‑quality components – wooden blocks, a detailed map and illustrated cards – deepen the historical immersion, though the extensive rule text may require patience. Perfect for fans of cooperative historical simulations who don’t mind a richer rulebook.

## FAQ
### How many players can join?
1 to 6 players, with a fully supported solo mode.

### What’s the typical play time?
Around 90‑120 minutes, varying with player count and familiarity.

### How complex is the game?
BGG weight 2.6 – detailed rules but approachable mechanics after the first play.

### What components are included?
Ireland map, wooden blocks for peoples, druids, chiefs and kings, event cards and a Britain decline diagram.

### Who is the game best suited for?
Fans of cooperative play, medieval history and regional influence simulations.

### Do I need prior historical knowledge?
Not required, though knowing the era enhances the thematic experience.

### Is there a digital version?
Yes, a VASSAL implementation exists for online play.

## Price Comparison
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