Hadrian’s Wall (2021) Board Game

Hadrian’s Wall is a board game inspired by the historical structure built by the Roman Empire in northern England during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. The wall was constructed to separate the Roman Empire from the barbarian tribes to the north. In the game, players take on the role of Roman builders tasked with constructing and expanding the wall while also developing the surrounding settlements.

Game Components of Hadrian’s Wall

1 Rulebook

2 Game Pads

6 Player Boards

50 Resources

90 Workers

48 Fate Cards

72 Player Cards.

How To Setup Hadrian’s Wall

To set up Hadrian’s Wall, each player receives two sheets: a Wall sheet and a Town sheet. These sheets contain numerous tracks and boxes to be filled throughout the game. Players also get a small deck of cards and start each round by drawing two cards from this deck. One card is used for scoring conditions at the end of the game, and the other determines the trading goods and Tetris piece (scouting formation) for the round. Additionally, a card from the main deck is drawn to determine the resources each player will gain for that round, including workers and blocks.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Resource Management: Players manage resources such as stone, civilians, servants, builders, and soldiers.

Flip-and-Write: Players draw cards to determine resources and scoring conditions.

Tech Tracks: Advancement on various tracks to generate points.

Solo and Multiplayer: Supports 1-6 players with minimal interaction between players.

Game Objective

Build and defend a section of Hadrian’s Wall over six rounds.

Construct a fort, man defenses, and attract civilians by building services and entertainment.

Accumulate points in four attributes: Renown, Piety, Valour, and Discipline, while avoiding Disdain.

Defend against Pict attacks to gain Glory and avoid negative points.

Player Experience

Hadrian’s Wall offers a deeply strategic experience with a focus on individual player progression. The game feels similar across different player counts, with minimal interaction between players, making it more of a multiplayer solitaire experience. The game includes difficulty levels, and the solo mode is slightly harder than multiplayer. Players enjoy the combo aspect of the game, where setting up actions to trigger chains of bonuses is highly satisfying. The game requires strategic planning and efficiency to maximize points.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers numerous pathways and strategies for advanced players.

Combo Mechanics: Setting up actions to trigger chains of bonuses is highly addictive and satisfying.

Good Rulebook: The rulebook is clear and easy to navigate.

Scalability: The game scales well across different player counts with minimal changes in rules.

Solo Campaign: Includes a free Solo Campaign designed by Bobby Hill.

Cons

Theme Inclusion of Slaves: Some players may find the inclusion of slaves in the theme unnecessary and potentially off-putting.

Complexity: Not suitable for beginners of flip-and-write mechanics.

MSRP: Some players might find the game overpriced.

Personal Thoughts on Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is ideal for players who enjoy resource management, strategy, and the flip-and-write mechanic. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate complex gameplay with multiple pathways to victory. While the theme is set in ancient Rome, the gameplay mechanics are the true star of the show. The game is a great choice for solo players or those who prefer minimal interaction in multiplayer games. However, it may not be the best fit for beginners or those looking for high player interaction. Overall, it is a solid addition to any collection for fans of strategic and efficient gameplay.

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