Ancients
- Designer William L. Banks
- Publisher 3W (World Wide Wargames) , Good Industries
- Illustration Doug Graham , Ted Koller , Beth Queman
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Ancients, two players command units on a hexagonal grid representing ancient and medieval battles. Movement uses movement points, and combat involves dice rolling combined with a ratio/combat results table. The game offers numerous scenarios, requiring tactical planning and strategic decision-making.
Who Is This Game For?
Ancients is designed for two players interested in historical wargames. It is a medium-weight game with a playtime of about 60 minutes and requires some prior experience with tactical combat mechanics.
How It Works
Players move units on a hex grid using movement points. Combat is resolved by dice rolls interpreted through a combat results table based on ratios. Different scenarios provide varied missions and historical contexts, challenging players tactically.
What Makes It Special
Designed by William L. Banks and published in 1986, Ancients focuses on battles before gunpowder, using classic wargame mechanics like hex grid movement, dice rolling, and combat results tables. It belongs to the family of ancient and medieval wargames and includes print & play options.
Pro
- Historical battle simulations from ancient and medieval periods
- Classic hex grid movement with movement points
- Tactical dice-based combat system with combat results table
- Wide variety of scenarios and missions
Contra
- Only suitable for 2 players
- Requires prior experience with tactical wargames
- Playtime around 60 minutes may be long for beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers historical battles from ancient and medieval times before the advent of gunpowder, including conflicts in ancient Greece, the Near East, and the Crusades.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the combat results table and practice unit movement on the hex grid to gain tactical advantages.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Ancients is designed specifically for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 60 minutes, depending on the scenario and players.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with tactical wargames and mechanics like hex grid movement and combat results tables is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ancients focuses on pre-gunpowder historical battles using classic wargame mechanics with many scenarios.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and the 12+ age limit, it is better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hex grid movement, movement points, and ratio/combat results table defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Ancients offers a solid tactical wargame experience for two players interested in historical combat without modern weaponry. It is especially suited for fans of classic hex-based combat games emphasizing historical detail.
