Lords & Wizards (1977) Board Game

Lords & Wizards is a classic board game released in 1977 by Fantasy Games Unlimited. Designed by Mike Gilbert, the game combines elements of economic strategy, fantasy, and wargaming. With a unique hexagon grid and dice rolling mechanics, Lords & Wizards offers a challenging and immersive gameplay experience for 2 to 12 players.

Game Components of Lords & Wizards

28″ x 22″ paper hex grid map sheet

72-page typewritten rulebook

800 die-cut counters

Time/Money card

Three cards of tables

Six-sided die

How To Setup Lords & Wizards

To set up the game, each player is dealt a Legend for their starting city or ruin on the map. Players choose a leader type (Lord or Wizard) and an alignment (Good, Neutral, or Chaotic), each with its advantages and disadvantages. The starting place is determined randomly, and players discover the Legend associated with their starting location.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Combat Resolution: Uses a Combat Result Table (CRT) and a die roll.

Leveling System: Lords gain a level every three months (six turns), while Wizards gain a level after four turns spent studying.

Movement: Affected by terrain.

Resource Management: Players manage Gold Talents and magical items.

Game Objective

Eliminate all other players before the end of the third year.

Alternatively, the player with the leader who has gained the most levels wins. Tie-breakers include greatest Gold Talent income, most magical items of the same alignment, and most current Gold Talents.

Player Experience

**Lords & Wizards** offers a complex and strategy-rich experience. Players must balance resource management, ally recruitment, and combat to build the strongest force. The game’s depth is evident in its detailed rules and the need for strategic finesse to succeed.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Encourages long-term planning and strategic decisions.

High Replayability: With multiple leaders, alignments, and random starting locations, each game can be unique.

Fantasy Theme: Immerses players in a fantasy world of magic and conquest.

Cons

Complex Rules: The 72-page rulebook can be daunting, and some rules are vague or contradictory.

Counter Management: Counters lack labels, requiring frequent reference to the rulebook.

Map Size: The large map can be unwieldy.

Balance Issues: Some allies, Legends, and magical items can unbalance the game.

Personal Thoughts on Lords & Wizards

**Lords & Wizards** is for players who enjoy intricate strategy and fantasy settings. It’s ideal for those who appreciate games with deep mechanics and are willing to invest time in understanding the rules. However, it may not be the best fit for casual players or those who prefer simpler, more streamlined experiences. Despite its complexities and balance issues, the game remains a solid choice for fans of fantasy wargames.

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