Board wargames have long been a staple of strategic gaming, but few have achieved the balance of accessibility and depth found in Commands & Colors: Ancients. Designed by Richard Borg and published by GMT Games, this game captures the essence of ancient warfare with an engaging blend of tactics, luck, and historical authenticity.
A Brief Overview
Commands & Colors: Ancients is a card-driven, hex-based board game that recreates battles from antiquity, focusing on engagements between the Roman Republic, Carthaginians, and other major factions. Utilising a unique system of battlefield sections and command cards, players must carefully manage their units and make the most of the cards in their hand to outmanoeuvre their opponents.
The game is known for its wooden block units, which are stickered to represent different troop types, including heavy infantry, light cavalry, elephants, and war chariots. These units offer both visual appeal and a practical means of tracking unit strength as they take hits during battle.
Why Commands & Colors: Ancients Stands Out
- Historical Depth – While the mechanics are streamlined, the scenarios draw directly from historical battles, allowing players to re-enact famous clashes such as Cannae, Zama, and Marathon.
- Engaging Gameplay – The balance of card-driven actions and dice-based combat ensures each game is dynamic, rewarding tactical foresight while embracing the unpredictability of war.
- Accessibility – Compared to other hex-based wargames, Commands & Colors: Ancients is easy to learn but offers significant strategic depth, making it an excellent choice for both newcomers and veteran wargamers.
- Expansions and Replayability – With multiple expansions covering different historical periods and factions, the game remains fresh and offers nearly endless replayability.
Best Strategies for Success
- Know Your Units – Each unit type has distinct strengths and weaknesses. Heavy infantry can absorb more damage, while light troops excel at mobility and harassment.
- Control the Battlefield – The board is divided into left, centre, and right sections. A well-balanced command card hand and the ability to anticipate the opponent’s moves are key.
- Use Leaders Wisely – Leaders provide vital benefits, boosting morale and increasing combat effectiveness. Keeping them alive can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
- Flanking and Positioning – Encircling the enemy and taking advantage of terrain can lead to decisive victories.
Final Thoughts
Commands & Colors: Ancients is a must-play for anyone interested in historical wargaming. Its blend of strategy, luck, and historical immersion makes it a standout in the genre. Whether you’re looking to recreate epic battles or simply enjoy a tactical challenge, this game delivers in spades.
Have you played Commands & Colors: Ancients? What’s your favourite battle or strategy? Let us know in the comments below!
#CommandsAndColors #BoardGames #Wargaming #TabletopGames #StrategyGames #HistoricalWargames #GMTGames #AncientWarfare