A.D. 30 (2012) Board Game – Board Game Guys

A.D. 30 is a board game that takes players back to the ancient world of the first century, specifically focusing on the events of the year A.D. 30. Players take on the role of various historical figures from that time period and navigate through challenges and obstacles to achieve their objectives.

Game Components of A.D. 30

Event Cards: These cards drive the game’s narrative, representing various events from Jesus’ life.

Character Tokens: Tokens for Jesus, Caiaphas, Herod, Pilate, and Judas.

Apostle Tokens: Tokens for the twelve apostles.

Temptation Cards: Cards that represent moments of vulnerability for Jesus.

Game Board: A map of the region through which Jesus travels.

How To Setup A.D. 30

To set up the game, players first place the character tokens on their respective starting locations on the board. The event deck is shuffled, and a starting hand of cards is drawn. The apostle tokens are placed in their designated areas. The game is ready to begin once all components are in their starting positions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Event Card Management: Players draw and resolve event cards, which guide Jesus’ movements and interactions.

Character Movement: Players move Jesus and his enemies based on the event cards.

Temptation Mechanic: Jesus can be affected by temptation cards, requiring the player to manage these challenges.

Apostle Recruitment: The player aims to recruit all twelve apostles if possible.

Game Objective: Ensure Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem and navigate the events leading to his betrayal and crucifixion.

Player Experience

Playing A.D. 30 involves a deep dive into the biblical narrative, requiring players to make choices that align with or diverge from the known story. The game forces players to contemplate the human aspect of Jesus, including his vulnerabilities and temptations. This can be both intriguing and uncomfortable for some players, particularly those with strong religious beliefs.

Pros

Historical Depth: The game provides a detailed look at the events surrounding Jesus’ life.

Thematic Integrity: The game treats its subject matter with respect and thoughtfulness.

Variety of Outcomes: Offers fourteen different possible outcomes, adding replayability.

Interactive Storytelling: Engages players in a visceral way, making them active participants in the narrative.

Cons

Comfort Level: Some players may find the idea of Jesus being tempted or failing uncomfortable.

Gameplay Mechanics: While the theme is engaging, the gameplay itself is described as just okay by some reviewers.

Limited Appeal: The game’s focus on a specific religious narrative may limit its appeal to a broader audience.

Personal Thoughts on A.D. 30

A.D. 30 is a game designed for those with a strong interest in biblical history or who appreciate thematic depth in their games. It is particularly suited for solitaire players who enjoy narrative-driven experiences and are comfortable with the game’s subject matter. For history buffs and those interested in a unique gaming experience, A.D. 30 offers a compelling and thought-provoking journey through one of the most significant stories in human history. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking purely entertaining or light-hearted gaming experiences.

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