Polis: Fight for the Hegemony
- Designer Fran Diaz
- Publisher Asylum Games (Board Games) , Mercury Games , Pegasus Spiele
- Illustration Fran Diaz , Ivan Escuder , Marek Rutkowski , Hans-Georg Schneider , Walter Velez
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players control Athens or Sparta in a struggle for dominance in 5th century B.C. Greece. Managing scarce resources, controlling territories, and engaging in military and diplomatic actions are key. Hoplites and triremes secure trade routes, while cultural projects earn prestige essential for victory. Each turn balances expansion, supply, and combat in a historically inspired setting.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for experienced gamers who enjoy deep, two-player strategy games. Suitable from age 12, it requires patience for its roughly 120-minute playtime and familiarity with complex mechanics. Not aimed at casual or family players.
How It Works
Polis uses Area Majority/Influence to determine control, Area Movement for troop deployment, and Dice Rolling for combat uncertainty. Variable Phase Order and Variable Set-up add variety each game. Players manage resources like wood, metal, and wine to feed their population and maintain markets. Military units fight for territories while diplomacy and prestige influence long-term success.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Fran Diaz, Polis was nominated for the 2013 Golden Geek Best 2-Player Board Game and International Gamers Award. Winner of the Premio Jugamos Tod@s 2013, it uniquely blends wargame mechanics with economic and diplomatic elements in ancient Greece, standing out with its Variable Phase Order.
Awards
2013
2013
- 2013 Premio Jugamos Tod@s — Winner
Pro
- Intense two-player strategy with historical depth
- Combination of Area Majority, Dice Rolling, and Variable Phase Order
- High replayability due to variable set-up
- Winner of Premio Jugamos Tod@s 2013
Contra
- Only for two players, no solo mode
- Relatively long playtime around 120 minutes
- Complex rules require prior experience
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in 5th century B.C. ancient Greece, the game focuses on the conflict between Athens with the Delian League and Sparta with the Peloponnesian League, reflecting the geopolitical and economic realities of the era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on mastering resource management and area control before tackling complex tactical maneuvers.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Polis is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 120 minutes, with straightforward setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced gamers comfortable with complex strategic games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Polis uniquely combines wargame, economic, and diplomatic mechanics, featuring Variable Phase Order for added depth.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, Polis is less suited for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
Variable Phase Order provides tactical flexibility and variety in each game.
Fazit
Polis offers a deep strategic experience for two players interested in historical simulation. It is recommended for those who appreciate complex, focused gameplay sessions lasting around two hours.
