# Cataphract

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 1999
- **BGG Rating**: 7.6
- **BGG Rank**: #5458
- **Players**: 1-2 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 360 min
- **Weight**: 3.40 / 5
- **Designers**: Mark Herman, Richard H. Berg
- **Artists**: Mark Simonitch, Mike Lemick, Rodger B. MacGowan
- **Publishers**: GMT Games
- **Categories**: Ancient, Medieval, Wargame
- **Mechanics**: Dice Rolling, Hexagon Grid

## Verdict
If you're a fan of historical wargames and enjoy deep immersion in ancient conflicts, Cataphract is your battlefield! Get ready for hours of strategy and epic decisions.Deep historical simulationImmersive campaignVariety of scenariosFocus on heavy cavalryHigh replayabilityLong play timeComplex rules2-player onlyFOR GENRE FANS

## Description
Cataphract plunges you into the heart of the great military campaigns of the Byzantine Empire, especially during Emperor Justinian's reign. Remember those heavily armored cavalrymen, the cataphracts? They were the elite mounted warriors of the ancient world, masters of both close combat and missile weapons, and the game focuses precisely on their impact on Byzantine warfare. You'll relive the era when the Eastern Roman Empire, led by Belisarius and Narses, attempted to reconquer much of the former Western Roman Empire. Although successful in reclaiming Italy and North Africa, history shows that holding onto these territories was a considerable challenge for the Byzantines. The game explores the crucial battles of this early medieval era, and to provide an even more immersive context, it includes a full campaign where you take on the role of Justinian in his quest to reunify the empire. In addition to the decisive battles and the campaign mode, the second edition of Cataphract also features bonus scenarios, such as a Viking raid and even leaders for future Peloponnesian War modules, further expanding the experience for military history fans. Oh, and if you enjoy the Attila: Scourge of God modules, you'll be pleased to know that the battles of the Utus River and the Catalaunian Fields have also been added!

## FAQ
### What is the average playtime for Cataphract?
Well, Cataphract is for those who enjoy planning carefully. A game can easily take 6 hours or more, especially if you're playing the full campaign. It's an all-day immersive experience!

### How many players is Cataphract ideal for?
Cataphract is a classic wargame designed for two players. It's a direct confrontation where each player takes a side in the conflict, making it perfect for strategic duels.

### Is Cataphract a complex game to learn?
Yes, it has a complexity rating of 3.3953/5 on BGG, placing it in the heavier game category. Expect detailed rules, many components, and a considerable learning curve. But the reward for those who commit is huge!

### What are the main components of the game?
As a good wargame, you can expect a robust hexagonal map, many unit counters (the famous 'chits'), dice to resolve combat, and, of course, a very detailed rulebook. The art and components are functional and focused on simulation.

### Who is Cataphract most recommended for?
It's highly recommended for fans of historical wargames, especially those interested in the Byzantine Empire and the 'Great Battles of History' series. If you're looking for a deep military simulation and aren't intimidated by complexity, this is for you!

### Are there any expansions or extra content for Cataphract?
The second edition already incorporates additional content from the first edition and other modules, such as Attila. Furthermore, the game mentions leaders for future Peloponnesian War modules, indicating that the 'Great Battles of History' series has plenty of material to explore.

## Price Comparison
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