SPQR (Deluxe Edition)

SPQR (Deluxe Edition)

Players
1-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
2 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
240 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
12+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
3.9 / 5
Year
2008

About the game

SPQR (Deluxe Edition) revives the classic GMT wargame of ancient Roman warfare, part of the acclaimed Great Battles of History series. This deluxe set bundles the five original scenarios with nine more drawn from later expansion modules, covering legendary clashes like Cannae, Zama, and Trebbia. Players command ancient armies on hex-based maps, using dice and careful movement to simulate command and combat at the strategic level. With one to four players and detailed scenario and unit scales, it's built for serious historical wargamers who want depth and authenticity. Each battle plays out with its own map and counters, letting groups explore centuries of Roman military history.

Hobbli's Notes

This is a wargamer's wargame: dense, historically grounded, and rewarding for players who enjoy re-fighting real ancient battles at a granular level. The deluxe bundling of fourteen scenarios offers excellent value for the genre. It's not a game for casual tables; the long playtime and detailed rules mean it's best reserved for dedicated wargaming sessions with players who already love the Great Battles of History series.

What we like

  • Fourteen historical scenarios provide exceptional scope and replay value.
  • Deep tactical simulation captures the feel of ancient battlefield command.
  • Well-regarded entry in GMT's respected Great Battles of History series.
  • Flexible for one to four players across multiple maps and eras.

Keep in mind

  • Very long playtime and high complexity demand serious time commitment.
  • Steep learning curve makes it unfriendly to wargaming newcomers.
  • Niche appeal limits it mostly to dedicated hobbyist audiences.

Who it's for

Suited to experienced wargame hobbyists and history buffs, typically played by one to four adults over long, focused sessions.

Mechanics