Clash of Spears: Rules for Skirmish Battles in Ancient Times (2020) Board Game

Clash of Spears is a tabletop miniatures game that allows players to recreate skirmish battles set in ancient times. Designed by Alvaro Erize and Francisco Erize, this game provides an immersive experience for 2-4 players aged 12 and above. With a focus on historical accuracy and strategic gameplay, Clash of Spears offers a unique gaming experience for those interested in ancient warfare.

Game Components of Clash of Spears: Rules for Skirmish Battles in Ancient Times

Miniatures: Around 40 miniatures per side, grouped into units of 4-12 figures.

Rulebook: Contains all necessary rules, army lists, and scenarios.

Tokens: Used for unit identification, dummy tokens for deception, and command points.

Quick Reference Sheet (QRS): For easy recall of modifiers and rules.

Dice: Used for resolving combat, morale tests, and other game mechanics.

Army Lists: Includes various ancient factions such as Republican Romans, Gauls, Carthaginians, and more.

How To Setup Clash of Spears: Rules for Skirmish Battles in Ancient Times

Setup involves a unique and engaging process where players place tokens on the 4×4 game board to represent their units. Players can use dummy tokens to outwit their opponents, adding a layer of strategy to the initial setup. Leaders are placed where they will be most effective, and then the tokens are revealed to determine the actual units on the board. This method speeds up the setup phase, allowing players to focus on executing their battle plans.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Unit Activation: Players take turns activating units using command points.

Actions: Units can attack, all-out attack, shoot, or throw items.

Defender Options: Hold, defend, or counter-attack, each with its own costs and benefits.

Fatigue System: Units acquire fatigue points that affect their combat and morale, which can be reduced by resting.

Command Points: Can be used to influence rolls and initiative.

Combat Resolution: Simple, with modifiers for close order, loose order, and other conditions.

Game Objective

The objective is to defeat the opposing force by removing enemy miniatures and managing fatigue effectively.

Player Experience

Clash of Spears offers a balanced and engaging experience, making it easy for newcomers to learn while maintaining depth for veteran players. The game is designed to keep both players engaged throughout the battle, with a focus on managing fatigue and leveraging command points strategically. The rules are well-written, illustrated, and include helpful summaries and examples to facilitate understanding.

Pros

Engaging Setup: Unique token placement system adds strategy to the initial setup.

Simple yet Deep Mechanics: Easy to learn but complex enough to stay engaging.

Fatigue System: Adds realism and strategic depth by managing unit fatigue.

Command Points: Allow for tactical influence on the game.

Variety of Factions: Includes multiple ancient armies for diverse gameplay.

Cons

Complexity in Some Rules: Requires a QRS to keep track of modifiers and fatigue points.

Dice Heavy Setup: Randomization in terrain placement can feel excessive.

Potential for Over-Engineering: Some rules, like reactions, might feel overly detailed.

Personal Thoughts on Clash of Spears: Rules for Skirmish Battles in Ancient Times

Clash of Spears is ideal for players interested in historical skirmish battles who appreciate a balanced mix of simplicity and depth. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy tactical decision-making and the management of unit fatigue and morale. While it may have some minor drawbacks, the game’s unique mechanics and engaging setup make it a standout in the historical wargaming genre.

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