Ram Speed: Naval Warfare in the Bronze Age
- Designer Colin Keizer
- Publisher Metagaming
- Illustration Ben Ostrander
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command ancient war galleys in tactical naval battles set in the Bronze Age. The game simulates ramming, missile attacks, and boarding actions on a hexagonal board. Players customize their fleets using a point system including hulls, rowing banks, and weapons to achieve naval dominance. The gameplay evokes mythic heroism and dramatic sea combat.
Who Is This Game For?
Ram Speed is designed for two players interested in historical wargames and tactical duels. It is a medium-weight game lasting about 90 minutes, suitable for ages 11 and up. Prior experience with hex-based strategy games helps grasp the tactical depth quickly.
How It Works
Each player builds a fleet using a point system covering hulls, rowing banks, weapons, and boarding parties. Battles occur on a hexagon grid where ships maneuver and ram each other. Besides ramming, players use missile fire and boarding combat to defeat enemy galleys and control the sea.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Colin Keizer and part of Metagaming's MicroHistory series (1980), Ram Speed uniquely simulates Bronze Age naval warfare focusing on ramming and boarding. It is specifically made for two players, combining historical depth with fast-paced gameplay.
Pro
- Historically grounded Bronze Age naval warfare simulation
- Tactical depth through hexagon grid and varied combat mechanics
- Fast gameplay despite complex combat systems
Contra
- Only suitable for two players
- Requires experience with wargames and hex-based mechanics
- 90-minute duration better for medium-weight gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the Bronze Age Mediterranean, a time when war galleys with bronze rams and boarding parties dominated the seas, the game immerses players in a world of ancient myths and heroic sea battles.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the fleet point-building system and practice maneuvering on the hex grid.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Ram Speed is designed exclusively for two players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, allowing for an extended play session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with tactical wargames and hexagon grid mechanics helps ease learning.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ram Speed focuses specifically on Bronze Age naval combat with ramming and boarding, setting it apart from other historical wargames.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 11 and medium complexity, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The hexagon grid combined with a point-based fleet construction and diverse combat options defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Ram Speed is recommended for fans of historical naval battles and tactical wargames seeking a compact yet strategically rich two-player experience.
