The Legend of Robin Hood (1979) Board Game

Released in 1979, The Legend of Robin Hood is a board game designed by Larry Catalano, featuring artwork by The Avalon Hill Game Co and OSG (Operational Studies Group). The game is set in medieval times and revolves around the legendary figure of Robin Hood, focusing on economic and wargame elements.

Game Components of The Legend of Robin Hood

Large game board representing Sherwood Forest and surrounding areas

Counters for Robin Hood, his Merry Men, the Sheriff of Nottingham, and other characters

Double-sided rules summary and play reference sheets

Nobles and bishops markers

Terrain effects markers

Command and recruitment mechanics components

Archery and melee combat mechanics components.

How To Setup The Legend of Robin Hood

Setup involves placing the game board, which features a map of Sherwood Forest and various locations such as castles and keeps. Players then deploy their respective units according to the initial setup rules. The Robin Hood player must recruit Merry Men and leaders like Little John and Friar Tuck, while the Sheriff of Nottingham sets up his forces, including pikemen, king’s foresters, and knights. The game also involves placing noble and bishop markers on the board to simulate their movement and potential targets for Robin Hood.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Movement System: Players move their units around the board using a hex-and-counter system.

Simple Archery/Melee/Personal Combat: Combat is resolved through simple mechanics, with considerations for terrain effects like wet bowstrings when crossing rivers.

Command/Recruitment System: The Robin Hood player must recruit and manage Merry Men and leaders.

Noble and Bishop Movement: Nobles and bishops move around the board, providing targets for Robin Hood.

Victory Conditions:
– Robin Hood must steal from the Sheriff of Nottingham’s treasury.
– Robin Hood must marry Maid Marian before Sir Guy can.
– Robin Hood must reach King Richard before the Sheriff of Nottingham does.

Player Experience

The game offers a captivating cat-and-mouse experience, with the Robin Hood player constantly dodging the law while looting castles and committing highway robbery. The Sheriff of Nottingham player aims to prevent Robin Hood’s objectives by capturing outlaws and collecting tax revenue from local villages. The gameplay is asymmetrical, with each player experiencing the game differently, adding to the thematic richness and challenge.

Pros

Asymmetrical Gameplay: Different play styles for each player enhance the thematic experience.

Light Wargame: Easy to learn but still engaging, making it a great introduction to wargames.

Thematic Depth: Well-realized Robin Hood theme with detailed mechanics matching the narrative.

Quick Setup: Rules are brief, and the game can be up and running within 30 minutes of opening the box.

Cons

Combat Vagueness: Some combat rules can be vague, requiring interpretation.

Potential for Short Games: If Robin Hood is caught early, the game can end quickly, sometimes within 20 minutes.

Limited Replayability: The game’s structure, while engaging, may not offer as much replayability as modern games.

Personal Thoughts on The Legend of Robin Hood

This game is ideal for those who enjoy light wargames with a strong narrative theme. It’s a great choice for fans of the Robin Hood legend and for players looking to explore older, but still rewarding, game designs. The asymmetrical gameplay and simple yet effective mechanics make it a fun and challenging experience for both casual and experienced gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking complex, modern game mechanics or high replayability.

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