The Republic of Rome
- Designer Richard Berthold , Don Greenwood , Robert Haines
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co , Valley Games, Inc. , Descartes Editeur , Edge Entertainment , Phalanx Games Deutschland
- Illustration Dave Dobyski , Charles Kibler , Kurt Miller , George I. Parrish, Jr. , Patrick Turner , Mark Poole
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The Republic of Rome, players take on the roles of powerful Roman senatorial families competing for control of the Senate. Players propose and vote on political maneuvers, govern provinces, recruit armies, and respond to crises like wars and unrest. Cooperation is necessary to keep Rome stable, but players also compete to become the most influential faction. The game simulates over 250 years of Roman Republican politics with a mix of negotiation and strategic planning.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is suited for experienced hobbyists and expert players aged 14 and older who enjoy deep, long strategy games. With a playing time of around 300 minutes, it requires patience and familiarity with complex political and wargame mechanics.
How It Works
The Republic of Rome uses mechanics such as Auction: Once Around, Hand Management, and Bribery. Players make proposals in the Senate that others vote on, influenced by the number and power of their senators. Proposals cover office appointments, military campaigns, and province management. Players must cooperate to overcome external threats while maneuvering politically to gain power.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Richard Berthold, Don Greenwood, and Robert Haines, The Republic of Rome won the 1990 Origins Awards Best Pre-20th Century Boardgame. It uniquely blends political intrigue with cooperative elements and is part of Valley Games' Classic Line series. The game explores the Roman Republic and its civil wars in depth.
Awards
- 1990 Charles S. Roberts Best Pre-World War II Board Game — Nominated
- 1990 Charles S. Roberts Best Wargaming Graphics — Nominated
- 1990 James F. Dunnigan Award for Playability and Design — Nominated
- 1990 Origins Awards Best Pre-20th Century Boardgame — Winner
Pro
- Deep political simulation with historical events
- Mix of cooperation and competition among players
- Origins Award winner 1990
- Solo mode included for 1 to 6 players
Contra
- Very long playtime around 300 minutes
- High complexity not suitable for beginners
- Minimum age 14 requires some maturity
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set during the Roman Republic, players control senatorial families navigating political and military challenges including civil wars and crises, reflecting historical events.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take your time to understand the complex mechanics and focus on balancing cooperation with competition.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, The Republic of Rome includes a solo mode for single players.
How long does a game really take?
A full game lasts about 300 minutes, so be prepared for a long session including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced hobbyists and experts familiar with complex political and strategic mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
The Republic of Rome combines political intrigue with cooperative gameplay and is part of Valley Games' Classic Line, setting it apart from other historical strategies.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for families with experienced players aged 14 and up.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its use of Auction: Once Around, Hand Management, and Bribery creates a unique political gameplay experience.
Fazit
The Republic of Rome is a demanding strategy game for patient players interested in historical politics. It suits groups who appreciate a blend of cooperation and competition in a lengthy session.
