Hoplite: Warfare in the Persian-Hellenistic Age 4th-5th Century BC

Step into the shoes of ancient strategists with Hoplite, the thrilling 15th volume in the acclaimed Great Battles of History series. This innovative board game invites players to experience the fierce clashes of the pre-Alexandrian Persian-Hellenistic Age, a pivotal era often hailed as the dawn of Western Warfare.

During this epoch, the formidable hoplite, with their heavy infantry tactics and tightly packed formations, took center stage. As opposed to the Eastern style of warfare characterized by archery and light cavalry, hoplite combat demanded a unique strategic approach that remains a hot topic among military historians even today.

In Hoplite, you can ignite your tactical imagination by engaging in eleven iconic battles from this illustrious period. Relive the decisive moments of the Battle of Leuctra, where the famous 60-man deep phalanx of Beotarch Epaminondas showcased its might, or challenge the tactical prowess of Persian missile troops against the renowned Greek hoplite formations.

The game is designed with intricate mechanics that capture the essence of hoplite warfare. From the Hellenic Law of Inertia to Drift to the Right, each element provides a chance to strategize effectively. Players can explore the unique capabilities of Persian Light Cavalry, mastering techniques like Harassment and Dispersal, while also navigating three different levels of hoplite advancement in combat.

Experience the monumental Battle of Plataea, the largest land battle in European history until the Napoleonic Wars, and take advantage of simplified versions of all battles with special rules that underscore the hoplite combat style.

Game Scale: 100 yards per hex

Featured Battles:

• Cunaxa - Persians vs. Rebels, 401 BCE
• Delium - Athenians vs. Boeotians, 424 BCE
• Ephesus - Ionians and Allies vs. Persians, 498 BCE
• Leuctra - Boeotian League vs. Sparta and Allies, 371 BCE
• Mantinea - Arcadian and Boeotian Leagues vs. Sparta and Lacedaemonian Allies, 362 BCE
• Marathon - Persia vs. Athens and Plataea, 490 BCE
• Mycale - Greeks vs. Persians, 479 BCE
• Plataea - Greeks vs. Persians, 479 BCE
• Nemea - Spartans and Allies vs. Thebans and Allies, 394 BCE
• Coronea - Spartans and Allies vs. Thebans and Allies, 394 BCE
• Tanagra - Athenians vs. Spartans, 457 BCE

Engage your strategic mindset and immerse yourself in the dynamic world of Hoplite. It's time to rewrite history one battle at a time!