Alt text: Cover of the "Circus Imperium" board game depicting a chariot race with large, roaring alien beasts pulling the chariots in an arena, as an excited crowd watches. The title is prominently displayed at the top, and the game is identified as part of the Renegade Legion series by FASA Corporation.
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Circus Imperium (1988)

ByMichail

Circus Imperium

Circus Imperium is a science fiction chariot racing board game published in 1988 by FASA. The game is loosely based on FASA’s RPG Renegade Legion. The game involves anti-grav chariots being pulled by carnivorous beasts, with the objective of the game being to defeat the other racers, usually by knocking them out of the race.

Why is Circus Imperium Popular?

Circus Imperium is a popular game among board game enthusiasts due to its unique theme and Gameplay Mechanics of Circus Imperium. The game’s light-hearted science fiction setting and chariot racing mechanics make it stand out from other board games.

Game Components of Circus Imperium

  • Anti-grav chariots
  • Carnivorous beasts
  • Track
  • Cardboard buildings
  • Tokens
  • Maneuvering cards
  • Lead figures (including chariots, senators, and imperial guards) produced by Ral Partha

    How To Setup Circus Imperium

    To set up *Circus Imperium*, players first assemble the track and place the cardboard buildings and tokens accordingly. Each player selects their anti-grav chariot and associated carnivorous beasts. The maneuvering cards are shuffled and distributed. The game is ready to start once all players have their chariots and beasts in position at the starting line.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective: The goal is to defeat other racers by crossing the finish line first, knocking them out of the race, or getting them eaten by the monsters.
  • Maneuvering: Players use maneuvering cards to control their chariots, adding an element of randomness to the game.
  • Combat: Players can disable or block their opponents’ chariots.
  • Random Outcomes: Actions often have unpredictable results.
  • Points for Laughs: Players can earn points for eliciting laughter or cheers from other gamers.

    Player Experience

    *Circus Imperium* offers a fun and light-hearted gaming experience, contrasting with the more serious tone of other *Renegade Legion* games. The game is designed to be quick and entertaining, with fewer rules and special situations compared to *Circus Maximus*. Players enjoy the unpredictability and humor, making it a great option for those looking for a casual, comedic game.

    Pros

  • Quick gameplay
  • Light-hearted and comedic tone
  • Easy to learn
  • Inclusion of large track, cardboard buildings, and tokens
  • Replayability

    Cons

  • Game components can be flimsy
  • Less strategic depth compared to other games in the series
  • Not suitable for serious strategists

    Personal Thoughts on Circus Imperium

    *Circus Imperium* is perfect for players seeking a fun, casual gaming experience with a dash of humor. It is ideal for groups looking to enjoy a light-hearted game without the complexity of more strategic games. While it may not appeal to serious gamers, it is a great addition to any game collection for its unique blend of science fiction and comedic elements.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl