History of the World
- Designer Gary Dicken , Steve Kendall , Phil Kendall
- Publisher Avalon Hill , Ragnar Brothers , The Avalon Hill Game Co , Compendium Games , Gibsons
- Illustration Charles S. Jarboe, Jr. , Steve Kendall , Jason Spiller , David Walker
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In History of the World, players lead different rising empires across seven epochs, from ancient Sumerians to pre-WWI Germany. You place units on a global map to conquer territories and gain influence, using event cards and dice battles to support your expansion. Points are scored after each epoch based on your units' presence, requiring strategic area control and tactical combat decisions.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy complex strategy games with long playtimes. With an average duration of about 270 minutes, History of the World is an expert-level game demanding patience and careful planning. Familiarity with civilization-style games and mechanics like area majority and hand management is beneficial.
How It Works
History of the World combines Area Majority, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management mechanics. Each player controls a different empire each epoch, placing units on a world map to conquer regions. Before their turn, players can play up to two event cards affecting actions. Battles are resolved with dice, with terrain and sea navigation influencing outcomes. Scoring occurs at epoch's end based on controlled areas, encouraging long-term strategy.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Gary Dicken, Steve Kendall, and Phil Kendall, History of the World won the 1993 Origins Award for Best Pre-20th Century Boardgame. Covering seven historical epochs, it offers a unique twist on civilization games by rotating player empires each round and emphasizing global conquest. The blend of area majority, dice combat, and hand management creates a balanced and deep experience.
Awards
- 1993 Origins Awards Best Pre-20th Century Boardgame — Winner
Pro
- Historical depth across seven epochs
- Combination of Area Majority, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management
- 1993 Origins Award winner for Best Pre-20th Century Boardgame
- Complex strategy with rotating empires
Contra
- Very long playtime of approximately 270 minutes
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- Minimum 3 players, no solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game spans historical periods from ancient times through the Middle Ages and Renaissance up to just before World War I. Players assume roles of various cultures like Romans, Mongols, or Spaniards on a global-scale map.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the core mechanics and plan moves with a long-term perspective rather than rushing expansion.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, History of the World is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A full game takes about 270 minutes, including setup and explanations.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex strategy and mechanics like area majority and dice combat.
How does this compare to similar games?
History of the World uniquely rotates player empires each epoch and emphasizes global conquest, differentiating it from typical civilization games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its length and complexity, it is better suited for experienced players aged 12 and up, rather than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Area Majority, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management creates a balanced blend of strategy and chance.
Fazit
History of the World is recommended for seasoned gamers seeking a complex, lengthy historical strategy game. It is less suited for families or casual players due to its duration and complexity.
