The Battle of Tours, 732 A.D. (2012) Board Game

The Battle of Tours, also known as the Battle of Poitiers, took place in 732 A.D. in present-day France. It was a significant battle between the Frankish and Islamic armies, led by Charles Martel and Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi, respectively. The Franks emerged victorious, halting the Islamic expansion into Western Europe and shaping the course of history.

Game Components of The Battle of Tours, 732 A.D.

Mapboard: One full color, 11” x 17” mounted mapboard.

Counters: 160 full color, die-cut counters representing various unit types, including light and heavy infantry, light and heavy cavalry, and mounted archers.

Rulebook: A 12-page rulebook providing straightforward rules and historical insights.

Other: The game includes no batteries or assembly requirements.

How To Setup The Battle of Tours, 732 A.D.

Setting up the game involves placing the mapboard, which depicts the terrain around Tours and Poitiers, and deploying the counters according to the historical deployment of the Muslim and Frankish armies. The rulebook provides detailed setup instructions to ensure historical accuracy and balance. Players need to designate starting positions for their units, reflecting the transitional nature of the Frankish army between Roman-style heavy infantry and the emergence of armored knights, and the light, mobile nature of the Muslim forces.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Chit-Pull System: Units are activated using a chit-pull mechanism, where Muslim units are activated by tribes, and Frankish units by type.

Dice Rolling: Combat resolutions involve dice rolling to determine outcomes.

Hexagon Grid: The game uses a hexagon grid to represent the battlefield.

Objective: The objective is to simulate the historical battle where Charles Martel (the Mayor of the Palace) led the Frankish army against the Muslim forces under Abd ar-Rahman. Players aim to replicate the pivotal moment where the Muslim expansion into Europe was halted.

Player Experience

The Battle of Tours, 732 A.D. offers a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay experience, capturing the historical chaos of medieval warfare. Players must adapt to the different strengths and weaknesses of their armies, with the Muslim forces relying on mobility and piecemeal attacks, while the Frankish army focuses on defensive strategies and the transition between heavy infantry and armored knights. The game’s mechanics ensure that no two games play the same, with shifting initiative and uncertain activations adding to the excitement and challenge.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously designed to reflect the historical context and tactics of the Battle of Tours.

Replay Value: High replayability due to the chit-pull system and dice rolling mechanics.

Educational: Players gain insights into medieval warfare and the historical significance of the battle.

Engaging Mechanics: The game’s mechanics, such as the activation of units by tribes or type, add a unique and engaging layer to the gameplay.

Cons

Complexity: The game involves complex rules and mechanics, which may be daunting for new players.

Availability: The game is currently unavailable in many marketplaces and has uncertain restocking dates.

Personal Thoughts on The Battle of Tours, 732 A.D.

This game is ideal for wargame enthusiasts and history buffs, particularly those interested in medieval battles. The game’s focus on historical accuracy and its unique mechanics make it a compelling addition to any wargamer’s collection. However, due to its complexity, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those new to wargames. The game’s ability to capture the essence of a pivotal moment in history makes it a rewarding experience for those willing to dive into its depths.

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