Alésia, 52 Av. J.-C.: César contre Vercingétorix (1998)

About this game

Alésia, 52 Av. J.-C.: César contre Vercingétorix (Alesia, 52 BC: Caesar against Vercingetorix) covers the battle of Alesia, Caesar's siege of the Gauls in 52 BC. This Tactical level board-wargame can be played by two players (Romans and Gauls) or by three, where the third player represents the Gallic relief force. Turns represent ninety minutes of daylight or two hours of nighttime; units represent Gallic tribes or Roman legions (which can be split into cohorts so as to better cover the walls). This issue also includes army lists and counters for Champs de Bataille--appropriately, for Marian Romans and Gauls. As with all Vae Victis games, the counters need to be cut out and mounted. The rules are entirely in French, although translations are available online.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 3.
• Rules load. At 2.5/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.