Board game "SPQR" cover with illustrations of Roman soldiers, the title in bold letters, and credits for game and graphic design.
| | | | | | |

SPQR (1992)

ByMichail

SPQR

SPQR is a board wargame designed by Richard Berg and Mark Herman, and released in 1992 by GMT Games as part of the Great Battles of History (GBoH) series of games on ancient warfare.

Why is SPQR Popular?

SPQR is popular and significant due to its:
– Historical accuracy: The game faithfully reproduces the battles of the Roman Republic, with detailed maps and counters that allow players to recreate historical scenarios.
– Awards and recognition: The game has received numerous awards and positive reviews, further increasing its popularity among board game enthusiasts.
– Expansions: Several expansions have been released for SPQR, adding more battles and enhancing the gameplay experience.
– Deluxe Edition: A deluxe edition was released in 2008, combining the basic SPQR game with all the expansions except for Raphia from “War Elephant” and Cirta from “Jurgurtha”. This edition also includes counters for the battle of Marathon and for the Jewish revolt against the Seleucid Empire.

Game Components of SPQR

  • Maps:** Two full-color two-sided 22×34″ mapsheets.
  • Counters:** 800 full-color two-sided counters, including 19 full-color two-sided 1×1/2″ counters.
  • Scenarios:** Five historical scenarios (Cannae, Zama, Cynoscephalae, Beneventum, and Bagradas Plains) plus a fantasy scenario pitting Rome against Alexander the Great.
  • Expansions:** Several expansions, including Consul For Rome, War Elephant, Pyrrhic Victory, Africanus, Jugurtha, Deluxe SPQR, and Barbarian.

    How To Setup SPQR

    Setting up SPQR involves placing the mapsheets on the playing area and deploying the counters according to the scenario being played. Each scenario has specific setup instructions detailing the placement of Roman and enemy forces, as well as any special rules or conditions for that battle. Players need to ensure all counters are correctly positioned and that the hexagonal grid maps are aligned properly.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Hexagonal Grid:** The game map is covered with a hexagonal grid, each hex representing 70 yards of distance.
  • Time Scale:** Each turn represents about 15–20 minutes, although the rules assume a loose time scale.
  • Unit Scale:** Each counter represents 300 to 1000 fighting troops, depending on size and type.
  • Objective:** Players aim to recreate historical battles and achieve victory by defeating their opponents, often by inflicting a certain number of casualties or capturing key terrain features.
  • Number of Players:** One to four players can play SPQR.

    Player Experience

    Playing SPQR offers a deep and immersive experience for fans of historical wargames. The game requires strategic thinking and tactical execution, as players must maneuver their forces effectively on the battlefield, leveraging the strengths of the Roman legion against various enemies. The historical accuracy and detailed scenarios make it appealing to those interested in ancient warfare.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy:** The game is meticulously researched, offering a realistic portrayal of ancient battles.
  • Depth and Complexity:** SPQR provides a high level of detail, making it appealing to serious wargamers.
  • Replayability:** Multiple scenarios and expansions offer extensive replay value.
  • Awards and Recognition:** SPQR won several awards, including the 1992 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Pre-World War II Boardgame and Best Wargame Graphics.

    Cons

  • Complex Rules:** The game has detailed rules, which can be intimidating for new players.
  • Long Setup Time:** Setting up each scenario can be time-consuming due to the number of counters and specific placement rules.
  • Speculative Nature:** Despite its historical basis, some aspects of the game remain speculative due to limited historical records.

    Personal Thoughts on SPQR

    SPQR is ideal for enthusiasts of historical wargames, particularly those with an interest in ancient Roman warfare. It offers a challenging and rewarding experience for experienced gamers, but may not be the best introduction for newcomers due to its complexity. The game’s depth and historical accuracy make it a standout in the wargaming genre, and its numerous expansions provide a rich and varied gaming experience.

    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