This book introduces the fascinating subject of ancient wargaming using the latest edition of DBA version 3.0. De Bellis Antiquitatis have become known for the combination of simple game mechanics and playability. The rules are easy to learn, but the finer details of tactics are hard to master. The rules are extensively used for competitions around the world. The book starts by discussing how to choose a period of history and build an wargaming army, then it includes the complete DBA 3.0 rules with a detailed step by step play through of a sample game- Germans v Romans on the bank of the river Rhine. There are also numerous sample army lists with discussion of the sources on which they are based. Sue Laflin-Barker was a key contributor to the development and success of WRG. This is her first solo authorship of a wargaming book.
Sue Laflin-Barker's introduction to the DBA 3.0 covers the basics and is a relatively friendly way to begin understanding the rules. I'll be consulting this book a lot as I begin to play it.
If you have never played a wargame or want a gentle introduction to De Bellis Antiquitatis.
The rules cover the ancient to the medieval period. The system has evolved from a simple two-page rule set to something altogether more complicated.
The book itself provides guidance to the new player on how to cheaply prepare an army to play the game, as well as providing a selection of army lists from the full rule book. There follows an example play through before reproducing the rules themselves.
The rules suffer from a lack of illustrations and examples, which are common in most glossy and modern sets of wargame rules.
None the less, the book provides a good introduction to the DBA universe and provides some helpful historical flavour for anyone new to the periods or wargaming in general.
Recommended to newcomers to the hobby whilst there is little new here for older hands, who perhaps should dive into the full rules.
I am now planning a Gallic and a Marian Roman army - an inspiring introduction.