Ave Tenebrae (1982) Board Game

Ave Tenebrae is a board game that was released in 1982, designed by Olivier Ledroit and published by Descartes Editeur. The game falls under the categories of Fantasy and Wargame, with gameplay mechanics such as dice rolling, grid movement, hexagon grid, and simulation. The game is designed for 2-4 players and has a runtime of approximately 120 minutes.

Game Components of Ave Tenebrae

Game Board: A large, colored map (65 x 85 cm) made of glossy paper, which was a sign of modernity and quality at the time of its release.

Units: Representing various clans (Empire, Elves, Trolls, Chaos), each unit has a specific color, logo, and characteristics such as movement, attack, and defense points, along with special abilities.

Pions and Figures: Include soldiers, dragons, and heroes, with the second edition introducing new elements like a point system for custom scenarios and additional spells.

Rulebook: Detailed rules for setup and gameplay.

How To Setup Ave Tenebrae

Setting up Ave Tenebrae involves carefully unfolding the large game board, which is divided into twelve parts and can be fragile. Players must be cautious to avoid tears. The units and other components need to be organized according to the chosen scenario, with each player selecting their camp and assigning units accordingly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn-Based: Players take turns making moves and executing actions.

Unit Management: Each unit has unique abilities and characteristics that affect gameplay.

Resource Management: Players manage points for custom scenarios in the second edition.

Objective: The objective is to defeat the opposing army, with the game ending when one side achieves victory or when the scenario’s conditions are met.

Player Experience

Ave Tenebrae offers a deeply immersive experience, especially for fans of fantasy and wargaming. Players delve into a world of magical battles, strategizing and managing their units to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s complexity and depth make it appealing to seasoned gamers, while its thematic elements evoke a sense of epic adventure.

Pros

Immersive Theme: Rich fantasy setting with detailed units and magical elements.

Deep Strategy: Complex gameplay mechanics that require thoughtful planning.

Customization: The second edition allows for custom scenarios using a point system.

Historical Significance: One of the first major French creations in the fantasy wargaming genre.

Cons

Setup Challenges: The large, folded game board can be prone to tears and is fragile.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can last 120 minutes or more, depending on the scenario.

Availability: The game is increasingly rare and hard to find, especially in its original form.

Personal Thoughts on Ave Tenebrae

Ave Tenebrae is a game tailored for enthusiasts of fantasy wargames and those who appreciate complex, strategic gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy deep, immersive themes and are willing to invest time in setting up and playing the game. While it may not be suitable for casual or new gamers due to its complexity and rarity, it remains a gem for those who cherish classic, epic battles in a fantasy setting.

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