Circus Maximus (1979) – Board Game Guys

Circus Maximus

“Circus Maximus” is a board game that was originally published by Battleline Publications in 1979, but it is better known for the 1980 Avalon Hill edition. The game was designed by Michael E. Matheny and was initially called “Chariot Racing”. It gained popularity at gaming conventions, where it was played on oversized boards with 10-foot (3.0 m)-long chariots. In 2007, almost 30 years after its original publication, “Circus Maximus” was chosen for the book “Hobby Games: The 100 Best”.

Game Components of Circus Maximus

Teams of Horses: Each with special characteristics.

Drivers: With varying skills.

Chariot Cars: Including options for scythed wheels.

Game Board: An oval track representing the Circus Maximus.

Counters and Tokens: For tracking player progress, damage, and other game elements.

Rules and Campaign Books: Detailing basic and advanced gameplay, as well as campaign rules.

How To Setup Circus Maximus

To set up the game, players randomly or strategically select their teams of horses, drivers, and chariot cars. The game board is laid out, and each player places their chariot at the starting line. The basic game involves generating chariots according to the rules, while the advanced game includes additional complexities like determining if a driver is dragged behind the horses and must cut themselves loose to avoid being trampled.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Selection: Choose horses, drivers, and chariots with unique characteristics.

Racing Mechanics: Players race their chariots around the track three times to determine victory.

Combat Elements: Players can whip opponents’ riders, ram chariots with scythed wheels, smash into horses, and run over crashed opponents.

Campaign Game: Manage teams over multiple races, with options to bet on races to increase income.

Objective: Be the first to complete three laps around the track or accumulate the most points through a series of races.

Player Experience

Playing **Circus Maximus** is a thrilling and chaotic experience. The game encourages aggressive tactics, making each race intense and unpredictable. Players must balance speed with strategic attacks on their opponents, all while managing the risks of their own chariot and driver. The campaign mode adds a layer of depth, allowing players to build their teams over time and engage in betting, which adds a financial strategy element.

Pros

Engaging Mechanics: The combination of racing and combat elements keeps the game exciting.

Replayability: The random selection of teams and the campaign mode ensure high replayability.

Theme Immersion: The game effectively captures the spirit of ancient Roman chariot racing.

Simple yet Deep Rules: Easy to learn but with complex strategies to master.

Cons

Violent Gameplay: The game’s violent and bloody nature may not appeal to all players.

Outdated Components: The game’s components and aesthetics are dated compared to modern board games.

Lengthy Gameplay: The game can take up to 120 minutes to play, which may be too long for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Circus Maximus

**Circus Maximus** is ideal for players who enjoy competitive, strategic games with a rich historical theme. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate the unique blend of racing and combat mechanics. While the game may not appeal to players seeking cooperative or family-friendly experiences, it remains a classic for those who enjoy intense, strategic gameplay. The game’s ability to evoke vivid imaginations of ancient Roman chariot races makes it a standout, even with its dated appearance.

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