Through the Ages: A New Story of Civilization
- Designer Vlaada Chvátil
- Publisher Czech Games Edition (CGE) , Cranio Creations , Devir , DiceTree Games , Eagle-Gryphon Games
- Illustration Filip Murmak , Radim Pech , Jakub Politzer , Milan Vavroň
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You guide a civilization from antiquity to the modern age by drafting technologies, electing leaders, building wonders and managing economy and military. The game focuses on card drafting, income and resource management, and events rather than a map. Military strength can directly harm opponents by taking resources, science, population or culture.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at hobby and advanced players who enjoy long, strategic multiplayer sessions. The minimum age is 14 and the advertised playing time is about 120 minutes, so prior experience with complex strategy games is helpful.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Action Points, Open Drafting and Auction elements. Players draft cards into personal tableaux (technologies, leaders, wonders), manage income and resources, invest in science and construct civilian and military improvements. Events affect all players and military interaction can cause loss of resources or leaders. Balancing economy, research and military is central.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Vlaada Chvátil, the 2015 edition revises many cards and military rules. It was nominated in 2015 for multiple Golden Geek awards (Best Strategy Board Game and Board Game of the Year) and for the Meeples Choice Award. The title has official digital implementations on platforms like Board Game Arena and Steam.
Awards
2015
- 2015 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Comprehensive civilization development via technologies, leaders and wonders
- Meaningful trade-offs between economy, science and military
- Drafting and Action-Point mechanics yield deep tactical choices
- Available on digital platforms (Board Game Arena, Steam)
Contra
- High complexity and long playtime (~120 minutes)
- Lengthy learning curve for new players
- Not suited for those preferring light or short games
Setting & Atmosphäre
The theme spans from ancient to modern ages, focusing on nation-building, technological progress and cultural development. Historical leaders appear as part of the card-driven system.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Allow a long first session to learn interactions; focus first on stable income and science before complex tactics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. The game is specified for 2–4 players.
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 120 minutes; with setup and analysis it can take longer.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy or civilization-style engine-building games is beneficial.
How does this compare to similar games?
Through the Ages emphasizes card drafting, Action Points and resource/income management rather than a map-based approach.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 14 and significant complexity, it's better for older or experienced family members.
What mechanic makes it special?
Open Drafting combined with Action Points and income/resource mechanics defines its gameplay.
Fazit
A rich, demanding civilization experience best suited for strategic players who accept long games. Not recommended for those seeking quick or lightweight sessions.
