| | | | | | | | |

De Bellis Antiquitatis: Quick Play Wargame Rules with Army Lists for Ancient and Medieval Battles (1990) Board Game

ByMichail

Brief History and Background Information for De Bellis Antiquitatis: Quick Play Wargame Rules with Army Lists for Ancient and Medieval Battles

De Bellis Antiquitatis, commonly known as DBA, is a set of wargaming rules designed for ancient and medieval battles. It was first released in 1990 and has since gained popularity among wargaming enthusiasts. The game was created by Philip C. Barker, Sue Laflin Barker, and Richard Bodley Scott and published by Hobby Products GmbH. With its focus on quick play and army lists for various historical periods, DBA offers players a streamlined and strategic gameplay experience.

Game Components of De Bellis Antiquitatis: Quick Play Wargame Rules with Army Lists for Ancient and Medieval Battles

  • Rulebook
  • Army lists for various historical periods
  • Miniatures representing armies
  • Dice
  • Measuring tools

How To Setup De Bellis Antiquitatis: Quick Play Wargame Rules with Army Lists for Ancient and Medieval Battles

  • Choose your army from the provided lists.
  • Set up the battlefield according to the scenario you choose.
  • Place your miniatures on the battlefield.
  • Follow the rules for movement, combat, and victory conditions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

DBA utilizes action points, dice rolling, line of sight, measurement movement, and a modular board to simulate ancient and medieval battles. The objective of the game is to outmaneuver and defeat your opponent’s army through strategic placement and tactical decision-making.

Player Experience

Pros:

  • Quick and easy setup
  • Strategic depth in army composition and movement
  • Historical accuracy in army lists
  • Suitable for 2-6 players

Cons:

  • Learning curve for new players
  • Limited customization options for armies
  • Requires additional miniatures and terrain

Personal Thoughts on De Bellis Antiquitatis: Quick Play Wargame Rules with Army Lists for Ancient and Medieval Battles

Overall, De Bellis Antiquitatis offers a unique and engaging wargaming experience for fans of ancient and medieval history. The game’s quick play mechanics and historical accuracy make it a standout choice for those looking for a challenging yet accessible wargame. While it may not have as much customization as other wargames, DBA’s focus on strategic gameplay and army composition is sure to appeal to history buffs and wargaming enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the genre, De Bellis Antiquitatis is worth your time if you enjoy tactical gameplay and historical battles.

Game Components of De Bellis Antiquitatis

  • Rule Book: Includes over 300 army lists, expanded diagrams, and background sections for each list.
  • Miniature Figures: Games can be played with 15mm, 25/28mm, 6mm, or 2mm figures, with optional larger scales.
  • Bases: Each army consists of 12 elements (stands) with multiple figures on each base.
  • Terrain: Randomly generated by the defender according to their army’s home territory.
  • Camp Model: Required for each army, which can include tents, carts, animals, and camp followers.

    How To Setup De Bellis Antiquitatis

    To set up a game of DBA, players start by determining who will be the invader and who will be the defender through a dice roll. The defender places terrain randomly, and the invader chooses their entry side. Both players then place their camp models and armies on the board. The defender takes the first turn, known as a “bound.” The game board is typically a square field, with sides roughly sixteen times the base width being used.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Turn Structure: Players alternate turns (bounds), rolling dice for “PIPs” (Points for Initiative and Movement) to determine their level of control for the turn.
  • Movement: Players spend PIPs to move single elements or connected groups of elements.
  • Combat: Resolved per-element, with dice rolls and modifiers for troop type and battlefield situation. The higher roll wins, and results are applied immediately.
  • Game Objective: The game ends when one player loses 1/3 of their army.

    Player Experience

    DBA is designed for quick and streamlined play, reducing gamesmanship and focusing on the feel and generalship requirements of ancient and medieval battles. Games typically last less than an hour, allowing for multiple games in a single session. The rules emphasize broad tactical doctrine over detailed weapon differences, making it accessible for both new and veteran gamers.

    Pros

  • Fast Play: Games are quick, lasting under an hour.
  • Streamlined Rules: Simplified mechanics reduce complexity and enhance playability.
  • Historical Accuracy: Allows for realistic simulations of ancient and medieval warfare with minimal figures.
  • Versatility: Can be played with various figure scales and includes options for larger games (Big Battle DBA).

    Cons

  • Simplicity: Some players may find the rules too simple, lacking detailed weapon and armor distinctions.
  • Limited Unit Qualities: Morale, cohesion, and troop quality are not separate unit values but are included in combat results and modifiers.

    Personal Thoughts on De Bellis Antiquitatis

    DBA is ideal for those interested in ancient and medieval wargaming who value quick, engaging games without the need for hundreds of miniatures. It is perfect for both home and club play, as well as for competition settings due to its fast-paced nature. While it may not satisfy players seeking highly detailed rules, it offers a balanced and enjoyable experience for those looking to refight historical battles with ease and efficiency.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • 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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *