The Great Battles of Alexander: Deluxe Edition (1995) Board Game

The Great Battles of Alexander: Deluxe Edition is a historical wargame that was first released in in 1995. It is designed by Rodger B. MacGowan and Mark Simonitch, and published by GMT Games. The game is set in ancient times and focuses on the military campaigns of Alexander the Great.

Game Components of The Great Battles of Alexander: Deluxe Edition

Counters: Five and one-half full-color two-sided countersheets.

Maps: Five full-color double-sided 22×34″ mapsheets.

Rules: 32-page Rules Manual, 36-page Tyrant rules Manual and Scenario Book, and three 24-page Scenario Books.

Charts & Tables: Three 8.5×11″ cards.

Die: One 10-sided die.

Expansions: Includes Diadochoi, Phalanx, Raphia, and Tyrant modules.

Digital Support: VASSAL Module, Cyberboard Gamebox, and Cyberboard Scenarios.

How To Setup The Great Battles of Alexander: Deluxe Edition

Setup involves placing the maps, distributing the counters according to the scenario being played, and preparing the rules and charts. Each scenario has specific setup instructions outlined in the respective scenario books. Players need to carefully follow these instructions to ensure accurate historical representation and balanced gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Time Scale: 20 minutes per turn.

Map Scale: 70 yards per hex.

Unit Scale: 100 men per strength point.

Number of Players: One to four.

Objective: The game objective varies by scenario but generally involves either Alexander’s forces attempting to defeat their opponents or the opponents trying to stop Alexander’s advances. Key mechanics include tactical maneuvering, combat resolution, and strategic decision-making.

Player Experience

The Great Battles of Alexander: Deluxe Edition offers a rich and immersive experience, particularly for history buffs and wargamers. The game provides a detailed look at the military tactics and battles of Alexander the Great, allowing players to explore different historical scenarios. The game’s complexity and depth ensure that each playthrough is unique and challenging.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is renowned for its historical accuracy and detailed scenarios.

Deep Strategy: Offers complex and engaging gameplay with multiple layers of strategy.

Expansive Content: Includes numerous scenarios and expansions, providing a high replay value.

High-Quality Components: Full-color maps and counters enhance the gaming experience.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s rules and mechanics can be overwhelming for new players.

Time-Consuming: Each game can take several hours to complete, especially for larger scenarios.

Space Requirements: The large maps and numerous counters require significant space to set up and play.

Personal Thoughts on The Great Battles of Alexander: Deluxe Edition

This game is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in ancient history, particularly the campaigns of Alexander the Great. It offers a comprehensive and challenging experience that rewards strategic thinking and historical knowledge. However, due to its complexity and the time required to play, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to wargaming.

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