The Great Battles of Alexander: Macedonian Art of War

GMT Games · Board game · 2015
1–4 · best 2 Solo 240 min Weight 3.7/5
rating Ludopedia
8.3 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 125.83
rating Ludopedia
8.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

A dream for military history buffs and deep simulation lovers; the tactical precision here is incredible.

Highlights
  • Extremely rigorous historical simulation
  • Massive amount of available scenarios
  • Chit-Pull system creates real tension
  • High-quality GMT components
Keep in mind
  • Very steep learning curve
  • Extremely long and dense sessions
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you're the kind of player who isn't satisfied with superficial 'strategy' and wants to feel the weight of every tactical decision on the battlefield, The Great Battles of Alexander is your calling. This title is the first volume of GMT Games' prestigious Great Battles of History series, delivering the definitive tactical-level experience. You aren't just moving pieces; you're commanding armies in some of the most iconic battles of ancient history, utilizing the refined 5th Edition rules crafted by Mark Herman and Richard Berg.

The game is a true feast for history buffs. The content is massive, starting with a scenario book covering 12 fundamental battles—such as Gaugamela and Issus—and expanding into additional modules. The Phalanx Module brings clashes like Sellasia, while the Diadochoi Module explores the wars of Alexander's successors. For those craving even more, the second printing included the Tyrant Module, adding a series of battles in Sicily and North Africa, drastically increasing the amount of available content.

At the heart of the game lies the Chit-Pull system, which adds a layer of uncertainty and tension: you don't have total control over who acts, simulating the fog of war where orders may be delayed or ignored. The detailed hexagonal map (where each hex represents about 70 yards) and the unit scale (1 strength point per 100 men) ensure a rigorous simulation. Each turn represents 20 minutes of real combat, demanding patience and precision. It is a dense, complex, and rewarding game, made for those who love the Macedonian art of war and wish to recreate the tactical genius of Alexander and his adversaries on a detailed and visceral scale.

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 BEST
2 BEST
3 OK
4 REC

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Ancient: Greece Game: The Great Battles of Alexander History: Macedonian Wars History: Wars of Alexander the Great Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Series: Great Battles of History (GMT Games)
Publisher GMT Games
Designer Mark Herman, Richard H. Berg

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Is this game suitable for wargame beginners?
Honestly? Not really. It's quite complex and dense. It's ideal for those already experienced with wargames or those with plenty of patience to study detailed manuals.
How long does a game take?
Prepare for long sessions. The estimated time is around 4 hours, but depending on the scenario and players, it can take much longer.
How many people can play?
The game supports 1 to 4 players, but the classic and most balanced experience is in a two-player duel.
What is the 'Chit-Pull System'?
It's a chit-drawing system. Instead of moving everything on your turn, you draw a chit to see which unit can act, simulating the unpredictability of the battlefield.
Does the game come with all scenarios?
The Deluxe edition is very comprehensive, including the scenario book, Phalanx and Diadochoi modules, and in newer versions, the Tyrant Module.

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