De Bellis Magistrorum Militum: Wargame Rules for Ancient and Medieval Battle from 3000 BC to 1525 AD (2007) Board Game

De Bellis Magistrorum Militum, also known as DBMM, is a set of wargaming rules for ancient and medieval battles. It was first published in 1990 by author Phil Barker and has since gained a devoted following among historical wargaming enthusiasts. The game covers a wide range of periods, from 3000 BC to 1525 AD, allowing players to recreate historical battles with miniature figures on tabletops.

Game Components of De Bellis Magistrorum Militum

Rulebook: The primary component, detailing the game mechanics, army lists, and setup.

Miniatures: Players use 15mm or 25mm scale miniatures, though 6mm and 54mm scales are also possible.

Dice: Used for determining player initiative points (PIPs) and resolving combat.

Army Lists: Published lists allow players to choose armies from various historical periods, with a points system to ensure balanced games.

Terrain: Players create or purchase terrain pieces to simulate historical battlefields.

How To Setup De Bellis Magistrorum Militum

To set up DBMM, players first select their armies using the published army lists, ensuring they are roughly equal in points. The battlefield is then set up with terrain pieces. Each army is organized into commands, with each command having its own PIPs determined by dice rolls. The frontage width of troop stands (elements) is standardized, but the depth and number of models vary by troop type.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: To defeat the opposing army by accumulating victory points through destroying or routing enemy units.

Player Initiative Points (PIPs): Each command rolls a dice to determine how many PIPs are available, controlling the number of actions that can be taken.

Combat System: Involves a complex set of modifiers to reflect historical accuracy, including factors for troop type, training, equipment, and morale.

Troop Types: Each type has unique strengths, weaknesses, and rules for movement, combat, and support.

Command and Control: Differentiates between Regular and Irregular generals, affecting command and control styles.

Player Experience

DBMM offers a deeply immersive and historically accurate wargaming experience. The game requires a significant amount of preparation and study, as the rules and army lists are detailed and complex. Players must balance strategic planning with tactical execution, making it appealing to those who enjoy both the historical aspect and the challenge of complex gameplay.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Deeply rooted in historical research, providing a authentic wargaming experience.

Complex Combat System: Numerous modifiers ensure that battles are dynamic and reflective of real combat scenarios.

Flexibility: Allows for a wide range of historical periods and army compositions.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and execution, making it engaging for experienced wargamers.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The complex rules and numerous modifiers can be overwhelming for new players.

Time-Consuming: Setting up and playing a game can take several hours due to the detailed rules and army selections.

Resource Intensive: Requires a significant investment in miniatures, terrain, and rulebooks.

Personal Thoughts on De Bellis Magistrorum Militum

DBMM is designed for the discerning wargamer who values historical accuracy and complexity. It is ideal for those with a strong interest in ancient and medieval history and the tactical nuances of historical battles. While it may not be the best fit for casual players due to its complexity, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time and effort to master its intricate rules.

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