Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
Perfect for history buffs and strategy fans who don't have time for endless wargames. The unit customization system is the star of the show.
Highlights
- Very interesting unit building
- Fast and dynamic gameplay
- Distinct faction identities
- Constant tension with secret deployment
Keep in mind
- Initial learning curve for beginners
- Dice luck can be frustrating
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready to lead history's most iconic ancient armies in Battalion: War of the Ancients. In this game, you don't just move pieces; you actively shape the composition of your forces. Do you want to lead the relentless discipline of the Roman legions? Perhaps the lethal mobility of the Greco-Bactrian cavalry? Or maybe the versatility of Hannibal, with his elephants and Carthaginian mercenaries? For those seeking something exotic, the Han dynasty's crossbowmen bring the power of the East across the deserts.
The heart of the game lies in balance. You build your units by combining different ranks and specialties. The catch is that the more 'packed' your unit is, the stronger it becomes, but the more unwieldy it gets. It's the classic dilemma: do you want a heavy hammer that hits hard but is slow, or an agile force that moves quickly but is fragile?
Matches are dynamic and tactically focused. You'll use faction-specific command cards to outmaneuver your opponent and action points to orchestrate your movements. Secret unit deployment adds a delicious layer of tension, where you never know exactly where the enemy hid their elite unit until it's too late. With games lasting between 20 and 45 minutes, it's the perfect choice for those who want the depth of a wargame without needing a 100-page manual or an entire day to play. It's pure strategy, precise pacing, and a fierce fight for every oasis and territory. Assemble your battalion, plan your offensive, and show who rules the ancient world!
The heart of the game lies in balance. You build your units by combining different ranks and specialties. The catch is that the more 'packed' your unit is, the stronger it becomes, but the more unwieldy it gets. It's the classic dilemma: do you want a heavy hammer that hits hard but is slow, or an agile force that moves quickly but is fragile?
Matches are dynamic and tactically focused. You'll use faction-specific command cards to outmaneuver your opponent and action points to orchestrate your movements. Secret unit deployment adds a delicious layer of tension, where you never know exactly where the enemy hid their elite unit until it's too late. With games lasting between 20 and 45 minutes, it's the perfect choice for those who want the depth of a wargame without needing a 100-page manual or an entire day to play. It's pure strategy, precise pacing, and a fierce fight for every oasis and territory. Assemble your battalion, plan your offensive, and show who rules the ancient world!
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
3
OK
4
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Osprey Games, Draco Ideas
Designer
Francesco Sirocchi, Paolo Mori
Artist
Roland MacDonald
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
603owners
595wishlist
80want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Is it too complex for someone starting with wargames?
Not at all! While tactical, it's much more accessible than traditional wargames, featuring fast matches and more straightforward rules.
How long does a game last?
Usually between 20 and 45 minutes, which is great if you want to play multiple matches in one night.
How many people can play?
The game supports 2 to 4 players, and can be played individually or in teams.
Is the game heavily dependent on luck?
There is dice rolling for combat resolution, but strategy in unit composition and the use of command cards mitigate the luck factor.
Does the game's language affect gameplay?
Very little. There is minimal text that is easy to memorize, so the language barrier is very low.
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