Swords & Sorcery: Quest and Conquest in the Age of Magic
- Designer Greg Costikyan , Eric Goldberg
- Publisher SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration John H. Butterfield , Tim Kirk
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Swords & Sorcery, players engage in tactical combat on a hexagon grid with variable player powers and role-playing elements. The game uses a Ratio / Combat Results Table for resolving battles. Set in a magical valley fought over by multiple factions, players undertake quests and conquests blending wargame and RPG styles.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced players aged 12 and up who appreciate complex fantasy wargames. With a playtime around 180 minutes, it suits longer gaming sessions and demands prior knowledge of strategy and role-playing mechanics. It supports 2 to 7 players without a solo mode.
How It Works
Players spend Action Points to move units and engage in combat on a hex grid. Combat outcomes are determined via a Ratio / Combat Results Table. Variable player powers create diverse play styles. Role-playing elements add character development and narrative depth. Simulation aspects enhance tactical decision-making within the fantasy setting.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Greg Costikyan and Eric Goldberg, Swords & Sorcery was nominated in 1978 for the Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Fantasy/Futuristic Board Game. It stands out by combining traditional wargame mechanics with role-playing and variable player abilities.
Awards
- 1978 Charles S. Roberts Best Fantasy / Futuristic Board Game — Nominated
Pro
- Combines wargame and role-playing elements
- Variable player powers increase variety
- Complex tactical depth with Action Points and Combat Results Table
- Nominated for Charles S. Roberts Award 1978
Contra
- Long playtime of about 180 minutes
- High complexity suited for experienced players
- No solo mode included
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a magical valley on a distant planet within a trinary star system, where technology has largely been replaced by magic. The story centers on the struggle for control of this enchanted region by various races.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the complex mechanics like Action Points and Combat Results Table before starting to play.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Swords & Sorcery is designed for 2 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay takes about 180 minutes, suitable for extended gaming sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex wargame and role-playing mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Swords & Sorcery combines wargame mechanics with role-playing and variable player powers, differentiating it from pure strategy games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is less suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Points, variable player powers, and a Ratio / Combat Results Table makes the gameplay unique.
Fazit
A complex fantasy wargame with RPG elements, recommended for experienced players interested in tactical depth. Not ideal for families or beginners due to complexity and length.
