Overview

Ancients is a tactical wargame simulating battles from the pre-gunpowder era, designed by Bill Banks. The game covers a vast sweep of military history, containing over 60 historical Ancient and Medieval battle scenarios ranging from Ancient Greece through the Renaissance. Each scenario lasts seven turns and recreates a specific historical engagement. The system is praised for being accessible and fast-playing while capturing broad truths about ancient and medieval warfare.

Components

• Hex map battlefield board
• Die-cut unit counters (infantry, cavalry, chariots, elephants, etc.)
• Combat Results Table
• Terrain Effects Chart
• Over 60 scenario cards/sheets
• Dice
• Rules booklet

Setup

1. Select one of the 60+ historical battle scenarios.
2. Place the hex map and identify relevant terrain features for the chosen battle.
3. Deploy unit counters for both sides according to the scenario setup instructions.
4. One player commands one army, the other commands the opposing force.
5. Determine first player as specified by the scenario.

Turn Structure

Each turn represents a phase of the battle:

1. First player movement phase: Move units according to their movement allowances.
2. First player combat phase: Resolve attacks against adjacent enemy units.
3. Second player movement phase: Move units.
4. Second player combat phase: Resolve attacks.
5. End of turn: Check scenario victory conditions; advance turn marker.

Each scenario lasts exactly seven turns.

Actions

Movement

• Units move hex-by-hex up to their movement allowance.
• Different unit types have different movement values (cavalry moves farther than infantry).
• Terrain affects movement costs (hills, rivers, forests, etc.).
• Zones of control may restrict movement near enemy units.

Combat

• Combat occurs between adjacent units.
• Odds-based resolution: compare total attacker strength to total defender strength.
• Cross-reference the odds ratio on the Combat Results Table with a die roll.
• Terrain modifiers apply to defenders in advantageous positions.
• Results include retreats, eliminations, and exchanges.

Leaders

• Leaders are removed from the board at the start of certain phases.
• Leaders may provide combat bonuses or rally effects.

Scoring / Victory Conditions

Victory conditions are scenario-specific, typically involving:

• Destroying a certain number of enemy units.
• Controlling key terrain hexes or positions.
• Maintaining army cohesion through all seven turns.
• Historical objectives such as breaking through enemy lines or holding defensive positions.

Special Rules & Edge Cases

• 60+ scenarios: The game includes an enormous variety of historical battles, providing extensive replayability.
• Seven-turn limit: All scenarios end after exactly seven turns, keeping games fast and focused.
• Accessible complexity: The rules are streamlined compared to many hex-and-counter wargames, making ancient warfare accessible.
• Unit variety: Different eras feature different unit types — chariots, elephants, phalanxes, legions, knights, and more.
• Historical flavor: Each scenario attempts to recreate the conditions and challenges faced by historical commanders.

Player Reference

Unit Type	Mobility	Role
Infantry	Low	Line combat and holding positions
Cavalry	High	Flanking and exploitation
Chariots	High	Shock attacks
Elephants	Medium	Heavy assault
Leaders	Variable	Command bonuses

Scenario length: 7 turns per battle Total scenarios: 60+