Barbarian Prince
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- Designer Arnold Hendrick
- Publisher Dwarfstar Games , Heritage USA
- Illustration Frank Cirocco , Cynthia Sims Millan
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You take on the role of the Barbarian Prince Cal Arath, navigating a programmed sequence of events without an opponent. Moving on a hexagon grid and rolling dice, you make decisions that affect your quest's outcome. Each playthrough offers a different set of encounters, creating a varied and tactical solo experience.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for solo players aged 12 and up, Barbarian Prince is a mid-weight solo adventure requiring patience for its approximately three-hour duration. It suits experienced players who enjoy tactical movement and decision-making in fantasy wargames. Prior experience with solo or role-playing games is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
The game uses a programmed event booklet to guide solo play. Players move a character across a hexagon grid and resolve actions via dice rolling, influencing the story's direction and survival chances. This simulation-based mechanic ensures replayability despite fixed event sequences.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Arnold Hendrick, Barbarian Prince won the 1981 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Fantasy Board Game. It is a pioneering programmed solo adventure combining hex grid movement and dice rolling in a fantasy wargame context, belonging to the Solitaire-Only Games family.
Awards
- 1981 Charles S. Roberts Best Fantasy Board Game — Winner
Pro
- Unique programmed solo adventure gameplay
- Combination of hexagon grid movement and dice rolling
- Winner of the 1981 Charles S. Roberts Award
- High replayability through varied event sequences
Contra
- Long playtime of around 180 minutes
- Relatively high complexity for solo play
- Designed exclusively for one player
Setting & atmosphere
Set in a medieval fantasy world of barbarism and sorcery, the game immerses players in a forgotten age where the Barbarian Prince undertakes heroic quests full of danger.
Tips for beginners
Take your time to carefully read events and plan your moves thoughtfully to succeed in the adventure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Barbarian Prince is explicitly designed as a solo-only game.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 180 minutes, making it an extended solo experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game requires patience and understanding of tactical dice and movement mechanics, suited for experienced players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Barbarian Prince is unique due to its programmed event sequence and blend of solo wargame with fantasy setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its combination of solo gameplay, hexagon grid movement, and programmed events stands out.
Fazit
Barbarian Prince is a classic for solo players who seek deep tactical adventures with lengthy playtime. Its complexity and duration make it less suitable for casual or family gamers.
Barbarian Prince at your next game night?
Add Barbarian Prince to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Barbarian Prince to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
