City States of Arklyrell
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- Designer Mike Joslyn
- Publisher Task Force Games
- Illustration R. Vance Buck , Rick Buck , Michael Penn
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
Players compete on a hexagonal grid to control eight citadels in the fantasy world of Arklyrell. The game lasts 25 turns or ends sooner if a player captures the required number of citadels. Combat involves dice rolling and a combat results table to resolve battles. Although magic items exist, there is no spell casting in the gameplay.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for players aged 10 and up, this game suits those who enjoy tactical fantasy wargames. With a duration of about 120 minutes, it is ideal for players comfortable with longer, strategic sessions. It is a medium complexity game requiring some tactical planning but no advanced experience.
How It Works
Players move units across a hex grid using movement points. Battles are resolved through dice rolling combined with a ratio-based combat results table that determines losses and outcomes. The objective is to control citadel hexes, with instant victory if the player controls enough. The game runs for 25 turns, with ties broken by the combat strength of remaining units.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Mike Joslyn and published by Task Force Games in 1983 as part of their Pocket Games series. It blends classic wargame mechanics like dice rolling and movement points with a fantasy setting that notably excludes spell casting. The hex grid and ratio combat system typify tactical games of its era.
Pro
- Tactical depth through movement points and combat results table
- Classic hex-grid wargame with a fantasy theme
- Supports 2 to 4 players with clear victory conditions
- Compact 1980s Pocket Game design
Contra
- No solo mode, only for 2-4 players
- Relatively long playtime around 120 minutes
- No spell casting despite fantasy setting
Setting & atmosphere
Set in the fantasy world of Arklyrell, players vie for control of citadels in a strategic warfare context combining fantasy elements with classic wargame mechanics.
Tips for beginners
Focus on strategically expanding control over citadels and use movement points efficiently for your units.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No, City States of Arklyrell is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 120 minutes, making it an extended tactical session.
What prior experience do I need?
Classified as a medium complexity game, it requires basic understanding of wargame mechanics like movement points and combat results table.
How does this compare to similar games?
It combines classic hex-grid wargaming with a fantasy setting without magic, differentiating it from typical fantasy games.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable for ages 10 and up, but its complexity and length make it better suited for experienced players than for families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of dice rolling, movement points, and ratio-based combat results shapes the tactical battles.
Fazit
City States of Arklyrell is a classic fantasy wargame for players seeking tactical hex-based battles. The longer playtime and moderate complexity make it more suitable for experienced players.
City States of Arklyrell at your next game night?
Add City States of Arklyrell to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add City States of Arklyrell to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
