Circus Maximus

Choose between a chariot race and a gladiator duel in ancient Rome, two violent games in one box.

Designers: Don Greenwood, Michael J. Matheny
Published by: The Avalon Hill Game Co
Editions by: Battleline

Two games in one box, both set in ancient Rome: this 1979 Battleline design lets you pick between a chariot race and a gladiator duel. In Chariot Race you assemble your team of horses, your driver and your chariot, each with its own strengths, then eight teams thunder around the track three times. In Gladiator you choose your weapons and step onto the sand, maneuvering, striking and waiting for the one mistake that lets you inside your opponent's guard. It is violent and bloody and makes no secret of it. Expect action queues, dice and betting with push-your-luck tension for up to ten people, and about two hours of dust and spectacle.

Chariot Race and Gladiator in one boxBuild your own team, driver and chariotUp to ten players, betting and push-your-luck

Who it's for

You have a big group that wants a long, theatrical evening of Roman spectacle with betting, dice and plenty of cheering.

Not for you if…

You dislike violent themes, elimination or an evening-long commitment. This one revels in blood and sand.

Vibe's take

Loud, dusty and gleefully bloodthirsty. You queue up moves, hold your breath while the dice roll, and cheer whenever someone else's plan goes spectacularly wrong.