The Conquerors: Alexander the Great (2006) Board Game

The Conquerors: Alexander the Great is a board game released in 2006 that allows players to step into the shoes of the legendary conqueror Alexander the Great. Designed by Knut Grünitz, Mike Lemick, Rodger B. MacGowan, Mark Mahaffey, and Mark Simonitch, the game is set in ancient times and focuses on strategic warfare and conquest.

Game Components of The Conquerors: Alexander the Great

140 half-inch counters

88 5/8-inch counters

55 Event cards

One 22″x34″ Mapsheet

24-page Rule Book

2 Player Aid Cards

Three six-sided dice.

How To Setup The Conquerors: Alexander the Great

Setting up the game involves placing the mapsheet, distributing the counters and cards, and preparing the player aid cards. The initial setup requires careful attention to the starting positions of Alexander’s army and the Persian forces, as well as the distribution of event cards that will influence the campaign. The game’s rule book provides a detailed guide to ensure a correct and balanced start.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

No Turns: The game continues until the Macedonian player wins or Alexander dies.

Card-Based Events: Cards provide historical opportunities and outside events.

Two-Tiered Battle Resolution: Combat system accounts for multiple factors beyond numbers.

Logistics and Campaign Management: Players must manage army building, movement, battle fatigue, and societal interactions.

Game Objective

For the Macedonian player: Maintain hegemony of Greece, become Great King, and establish his Deity by achieving eight difficult objectives, including controlling key provinces, building Alexandria, and invoking proskynesis.

For the Persian player: Use money and manpower to hinder the Macedonian player’s objectives.

Player Experience

Playing The Conquerors: Alexander the Great is a challenging and immersive experience that requires strategic thinking and historical understanding. Players must navigate the complexities of ancient warfare, logistical challenges, and the intricate web of alliances and rivalries. The game is remarkably balanced, offering a fun and engaging experience for both solo and two-player scenarios.

Pros

Historical Detail: Rich in historical accuracy and context.

Complex Strategy: Offers deep and challenging gameplay.

Balanced Mechanics: Playtesters found the game to be remarkably balanced.

Immersive Experience: Players feel the era and problems of campaigning.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s complex mechanics and rules require time to learn.

Lengthy Playtime: Games can last around 4 hours.

Limited Player Count: Designed for 1-2 players, which may limit group play.

Personal Thoughts on The Conquerors: Alexander the Great

This game is ideal for history buffs and strategic gamers who enjoy complex, challenging experiences. It is particularly suited for those interested in ancient history and the campaigns of Alexander the Great. While it may not be the best fit for casual or new gamers due to its complexity, it offers a deeply rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time to learn and master its mechanics.

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