The Battle of Raphia (1977) Board Game

The Battle of Raphia is a wargame that simulates the historical battle of the same name that took place in 217 BC between the armies of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt and the Seleucid Empire. The game was designed by Paul Richard “Rich” Banner and released in 1977 by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW Games). The game allows players to reenact this ancient battle and strategize their way to victory on the tabletop.

Game Components of The Battle of Raphia

Map: An 18″ x 24″ paper hex grid map scaled at 100 yards per hex.

Counters: 120 counters representing various units such as infantry, cavalry, and war elephants.

Rulebook: A concise rulebook.

Dice: Used for resolving combat and morale checks.

How To Setup The Battle of Raphia

Players set up their armies in lines facing each other, deciding on the placement of each unit type. The game includes predefined starting positions, but players have some flexibility in arranging their troops.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Sequence: An “I Go, You Go” system where one player moves and fires, then the other player does the same.

Unit Movement: Units move and engage in combat within the hex grid.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved using dice rolls, with special rules for war elephants and morale failures.

Game Objective: The objective is to defeat the opposing army by reducing its strength and morale.

Special Rules:
– War elephants have unique rules, including panic and trampling effects.
– Morale failure can lead to unit routing.

Player Experience

The Battle of Raphia offers a straightforward and relatively quick gaming experience, designed to be completed in under two hours. Players can expect a simplified yet engaging simulation of ancient warfare, with a focus on the clash of armies rather than complex strategy. The game captures the essence of the historical battle, including the significant role of war elephants and the morale dynamics of ancient combat.

Pros

Quick Playtime: The game is designed to be played in under 120 minutes.

Simple Rules: Easy to learn and play, making it accessible to new players.

Historical Accuracy: Reflects the warfare style of the period.

Team Play: Can be played with teams, enhancing the collaborative experience.

Cons

Limited Complexity: Some reviewers found the game too simple and lacking in strategy.

Historical Limitations: The small number of counters and simplified rules raised questions about the game’s historical accuracy.

Repetitive Gameplay: Some critics noted that the game can feel like a straightforward “hack and slash” experience.

Personal Thoughts on The Battle of Raphia

The Battle of Raphia is ideal for those looking for a quick, introductory wargame that captures the spirit of ancient warfare without the complexity of larger games. It is suitable for new players and those interested in historical simulations, particularly those fascinated by the Syrian Wars and the Successor period. While it may not offer the depth and strategy that more experienced gamers might seek, it provides a fun and educational experience that can be enjoyed in a single session.

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