Julius Caesar: Caesar, Pompey, and the Roman Civil War
- Designer Grant Dalgliesh , Justin Thompson
- Publisher Columbia Games , Banana Games , Doit Games
- Illustration Karim Chakroun , Mark Churms
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players command Caesar's or Pompey's legions during the Roman Civil War (49-45 BC) on a large map featuring 13 victory point cities. The game blends card-driven mechanics with dice rolling and strategic point-to-point movement, offering deep tactical decisions to control or defend the Republic.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players who enjoy complex wargames and historical simulations. With a playtime around 180 minutes, it demands patience and strategic planning. Prior knowledge of block wargames or campaign-style card games is beneficial due to its advanced hand management and secret unit deployment mechanics.
How It Works
Julius Caesar is a campaign-driven block game where players use cards to move units, levy new troops, or trigger events. Dice resolve battles and players secretly deploy units on a point-to-point map. Tactical hand management is key to capturing important cities and winning the civil war.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Grant Dalgliesh and Justin Thompson, Julius Caesar was nominated for the 2010 Charles S. Roberts Award and the 2011 Golden Geek Best Wargame. It stands out by combining block wargame components with card-driven campaign play within the Ancient Rome family.
Awards
2011
- 2010 Charles S. Roberts Best Ancient to Napoleonic Era Board Wargame — Nominated
Pro
- Deep historical simulation of the Roman Civil War
- Combination of block wargame and card management
- Nominated for Charles S. Roberts Award (2010) and Golden Geek (2011)
- Strategically rich with secret unit deployment
Contra
- Designed exclusively for two players
- Long playtime around 180 minutes
- Complex rules limit accessibility for beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set during the late Roman Civil War (49-45 BC), the game simulates the struggle between Caesar and Pompey for control over Rome and the Mediterranean.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on mastering the card mechanics and movement before diving into advanced strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Julius Caesar is designed strictly for two players.
How long does a game really take?
Expect about 180 minutes per game, including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and tactical card management helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its blend of block wargame mechanics with campaign card play makes it unique.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of block wargaming with secret unit deployment and hand management stands out.
Fazit
Julius Caesar is a demanding, thematically rich two-player game ideal for wargame enthusiasts valuing historical depth and strategic complexity. The long playtime requires commitment.
