Board game "Lionheart" by Parker Brothers, for ages 10 to adult, featuring medieval warfare theme and 92 sculpted warriors.
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Lionheart (1997)

ByMichail

Lionheart is a medieval miniature wargame designed by Larry Harris and published by Parker Brothers in 1997. The game is popular and significant due to its unique blend of chess-like gameplay and wargaming mechanics, which offer a challenging and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Lionheart

  • 9 by 10 game board
  • Gold and silver miniatures of soldiers (kings, knights, archers, infantry, heavy infantry, mercenaries, peasants)
  • Special six-sided dice with battle axe, crossed arrows, and Panic faces
  • Bases for unit formation

    How To Setup Lionheart

    To set up the game, each player places their army on the first two rows of the board on opposite sides. Each player must include a king, which starts in the middle of the back row. Players decide the compositions and starting positions of their ten units.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay Mechanics:**
    – Players control different ranks of soldiers with unique movement and combat abilities.
    – Units can move, turn, or attack with each player allowed two actions per turn.
    – Movement is directional, with foot soldiers moving one square and horseback units moving any distance in a straight line until blocked.
    – Attacks are resolved by rolling special dice, with hits determined by battle axe or arrow faces.
    – Knights and kings require two hits to be removed.
    – A Panic result causes the attacking unit to retreat.

  • Game Objective:**
    – The game is won by either killing the opposing player’s king or eliminating their entire army.

    Player Experience

    Lionheart offers a engaging and strategic experience, blending the tactical depth of a wargame with the simplicity of a board game. Players must carefully plan their moves, taking into account the unique abilities of each unit and the unpredictability of the dice rolls.

    Pros

  • Simple yet interesting rules:** The game is praised for its easy-to-learn mechanics combined with deep strategic possibilities.
  • Fun and engaging gameplay:** Reviews describe it as a fun way to spend an hour, with the dice rolls adding an element of excitement.
  • Strategic depth:** Players need to think carefully about unit placement and actions.

    Cons

  • Aesthetic criticism:** Some reviews criticize the game’s appearance, finding it lacking in visual appeal.
  • Luck factor:** The reliance on dice rolls can make the game feel somewhat random.

    Personal Thoughts on Lionheart

    Lionheart is ideal for those who enjoy strategic games with a touch of luck and unpredictability. It is particularly suited for fans of miniature wargames and chess-like strategy, and it is accessible enough for players aged 10 and above. However, those seeking a game with high production values in terms of visuals may find it less appealing.

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    • 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