De Bellis Multitudinis: Wargames Rules for Ancient and Medieval Battles – 3000 BC to 1500 AD
- Designer Philip C. Barker , Richard Bodley Scott
- Publisher Wargames Research Group
- Illustration Ian Heath
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command large armies in ancient and medieval battles using miniatures. The game covers 3000 BC to 1500 AD and uses a points system to build balanced forces. Units are grouped into elements and move across the battlefield measured precisely, while dice rolls and line of sight determine combat outcomes.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for two players interested in historical miniatures wargaming. It is a medium to heavy game with about 180 minutes playtime, suitable for players aged 12 and up who have experience with complex simulation rules.
How It Works
De Bellis Multitudinis uses Dice Rolling to resolve combat and Line of Sight for visibility checks. Movement is done by Measurement Movement, requiring precise distance measurement. Variable Set-up allows tactical flexibility in army deployment. The game simulates historical battles with an abstract but detailed rule system.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Philip C. Barker and Richard Bodley Scott, this game is the more detailed successor to De Bellis Antiquitatis. Since 1993, it has been a standard for large-scale historical miniatures battles covering 3000 BC to 1500 AD, integrating complex mechanics like Line of Sight and Dice Rolling. It belongs to the DBx family.
Pro
- Detailed simulation of historical battles over a wide time span
- Variable army setup with points system for balanced play
- Mechanics like Line of Sight and Measurement Movement add tactical depth
- Longstanding standard in historical miniatures wargaming
Contra
- Only for two players
- Relatively long playtime around 180 minutes
- Requires experience with complex rule systems
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates historical battles from ancient to medieval times, roughly 3000 BC to 1500 AD, focusing on real armies and warfare of those eras.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to study the rules carefully and play initial games with experienced players to better understand the complex mechanics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, De Bellis Multitudinis is designed for two players and does not support a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 180 minutes, plus time for setup and army organization.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex miniatures wargame rules and historical simulations.
How does this compare to similar games?
De Bellis Multitudinis is more detailed and extensive than its smaller counterpart De Bellis Antiquitatis, focusing on large-scale battles with many figures.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity, long playtime, and age restriction of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Mechanics like Line of Sight and Measurement Movement create realistic sight and movement rules in the battle simulation.
Fazit
De Bellis Multitudinis is a demanding ruleset for historical miniatures battles, ideal for players interested in detailed simulation and long play sessions. It is less suited for quick games or beginners.
