Champs de bataille: Soissons 486 et Poitiers 732 (1996)

About this game

This was the first of the Champs de Bataille (Battlefield) games, based on the DBM miniatures rules, which would reappear frequently in subsequent issues. It features armies to cover the battles of Soissons (486) and Poitiers (732--better known in English as the battle of Tours)--thus, it has Franks, Gallo-Romans, East Franks, and Saracens. 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. Vae Victis issue 9.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 2.4/5 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.