Circus Maximus (1979) Board Game

Circus Maximus is a classic board game released in 1979 by The Avalon Hill Game Co. It is a game that combines elements of ancient Roman chariot racing, fighting, and betting. The game has been designed by Don Greenwood and Michael J. Matheny, with artwork by Michael Carroll, Cathy Chastain, and Chris White.

Game Components of Circus Maximus

Game board depicting the Circus Maximus track

Chariot miniatures

Betting markers

Action cards

Dice

Rulebook

How To Setup Circus Maximus

Set up the game board on a flat surface.

Each player selects a chariot miniature and places it on the starting line.

Shuffle the action cards and place them within reach of all players.

Distribute betting markers to each player.

Roll dice to determine starting positions and initiative order.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

The objective of Circus Maximus is to be the first chariot to complete a set number of laps around the track. Players use action cards to move their chariots, attack opponents, and place bets on the outcome of the race. Dice rolling determines the success of various actions, adding an element of luck to the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

Exciting and thematic gameplay

Interactive player interaction through combat and betting

Replayability with different strategies each game

Cons:

Lengthy gameplay with a runtime of 120 minutes

Luck-based dice rolling may frustrate some players

Personal Thoughts on Circus Maximus

Circus Maximus is a unique board game that offers a blend of racing, fighting, and betting mechanics. The game captures the essence of ancient Roman entertainment and provides a fun and engaging experience for players. However, the lengthy gameplay and reliance on luck may not appeal to all players. The build quality of the components is decent, and the game can be found both new and used at varying prices. Overall, Circus Maximus is worth a try for fans of historical and thematic board games, but those looking for a quicker and more strategic experience may want to explore alternative options.

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