Through the Ages: A Story of Civilization
- Designer Vlaada Chvátil
- Publisher Czech Board Games , Czech Games Edition (CGE) , DiceTree Games , Eagle-Gryphon Games , HomoLudicus
- Illustration Richard Cortes , Paul Niemeyer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You develop a civilization from antiquity to the modern age by managing resources, discovering technologies, electing leaders and building wonders. The game uses open card drafting, hand management and action points rather than a map; military strength influences opponents by stealing resources, killing leaders or reducing population. Victory goes to the player with the most culture at the end of the modern age.
Who Is This Game For?
For experienced strategy players who enjoy deep engine-building and complex decisions. The game is for ages 12+ and plays in about 120 minutes. Prior experience with drafting and tableau-building helps; newcomers should allow time for learning.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Action Points, Open Drafting and Hand Management: players draft cards from an open pool, invest science and resources to use technologies and buildings, and spend action points to perform various actions. Auction/Bidding elements can appear in some situations, and tableau building drives long-term development. Military is built similarly to civilian structures and directly affects other players' resources and leaders.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Vlaada Chvátil, Through the Ages focuses on internal civilization development without a map and combines deep engine-building with card drafting. It won the International Gamers Awards (General Strategy; Multi-player) in 2007 and received several Golden Geek nominations.
Awards
2007, 2008
2007
- 2008 JoTa Best Card Game — Nominated
- 2006 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Deep engine-building and long-term strategic play
- Strong combination of Open Drafting, Hand Management and Action Points
- Focus on internal civilization growth rather than map control
- Recognized by the International Gamers Awards (2007)
Contra
- Long playing time (around 120 minutes)
- Steep learning curve for new players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The theme follows human civilization's progress across ages, spotlighting culture, government, leadership, religion and science as core development areas.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Allow a full session for the first game and prioritize stable synergies between science, population and resources rather than short-term gains.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. The game is listed for 2–4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The stated duration is about 120 minutes; include extra time for setup and rule explanation for your first play.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a heavier strategy game; experience with drafting, tableau building and engine-building is beneficial.
How does this compare to similar games?
Unlike many civilization titles, Through the Ages omits a map and emphasizes card-driven tableau and resource management.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 12 and notable complexity, it's better suited to families with older, experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
Open Drafting combined with Hand Management and Action Points defines the game's strategic depth.
Fazit
A dense, strategy-heavy civilization game suited for players who enjoy long, thoughtful sessions. Recommended if you want a card-driven engine-builder; less suitable for casual groups seeking quick play.
