Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition (2020) Board Game

Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition is a board game that combines elements of strategy, history, and warfare. Originally released in 1986, it has been re-released in this new edition in in 2020. Designed by Chris Collingwood and published by PSC Games, this game takes players on a journey through the history of Britain, from the Roman invasion to the Norman Conquest.

Game Components of Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition

Over 200 beautifully sculpted plastic miniatures

Two game boards: one for the Classic version featuring England, Wales, and Scotland, and another for the Duel version including Ireland

Four large foldout player guides for Classic and two for Duel

A detailed, high gloss instruction manual

Tokens for tracking regions raided, points, forts, burghs, and population

Miniatures colored in red, blue, black, and purple, representing various historical factions.

How To Setup Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition

Setting up the game involves unfolding the large game board, distributing the miniatures and tokens according to the chosen game mode (Classic or Duel), and assigning each player their respective factions and player guides. The Classic version requires each of the four players to control multiple nations, while the Duel version splits the factions between two players. The game includes detailed player aids to help navigate the complex historical setup and faction management.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Historical Reenactment: Players recreate the turbulent history of Britain from the Roman invasion (AD 43) to the Norman conquest (AD 1085).

Faction Management: Each player controls several tribes and leaders, with the power of each tribe rising and falling over the centuries.

Turn Structure: The game is divided into 16 turns, each representing 50-80 years, with victory points scored at specific turns.

Asymmetric Victory Conditions: Each faction has unique objectives, such as conquering territories or defeating specific enemies.

Historical Scripting: Nations appear in historical areas with historical forces, but players have the freedom to alter the course of history.

Player Experience

Playing **Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition** is an immersive experience that allows players to delve into Britain’s rich historical landscape. The game’s complexity and depth make it engaging, with the ebb and flow of different nations providing a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay environment. The game requires strategic thinking and historical insight, making it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy historical wargames. However, the extensive setup and the need to frequently refer to faction sheets can be time-consuming and slightly cumbersome.

Pros

Immersive Theme: The game deeply thematic, allowing players to experience the changing fates of historical nations.

Asymmetric Gameplay: Different victory conditions for each faction add a layer of complexity and replayability.

High-Quality Components: Beautifully sculpted miniatures and detailed player aids enhance the gameplay experience.

Historical Depth: The game covers a thousand years of British history, offering a rich and educational experience.

Cons

Complex Setup: The extensive setup process can be time-consuming and requires careful attention to detail.

Frequent Rule Checks: Players need to frequently refer to faction sheets, which can disrupt the flow of the game.

Long Playtime: The game can take two evenings to complete, especially for the Classic version.

Personal Thoughts on Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition

**Britannia: Classic and New Duel Edition** is ideal for fans of historical wargames and those who enjoy deep, strategic gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the complexity of managing multiple factions with unique objectives. While the game’s length and complexity might deter some, the rewarding experience and historical immersion make it a standout in its genre. For those with less time, the Duel version offers a faster and more streamlined experience, making it accessible to a broader range of players.

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