A Wargamer's Guide to the Early Roman Empire

by Daniel Mersey

The Roman army of the early empire is one of the most instantly recognizable armies and enjoys a reputation for excellence. This and their many famous campaigns against a wide range of colorful foes makes this one of the most popular periods for wargamers. Covering the period from 27BC to AD284, Daniel Mersey gives a wargamer’s perspective of the many conflicts and offers advice on how to recreate these on the gaming table. Advice is given on factors to consider when choosing an appropriate set of commercially available rules, or devising your own, to best suit the scale and style of battle you want and capture the flavor of the period. The relevant ranges of figures and terrain pieces and buildings are also reviewed. Analysis of the forces involved, organization, tactics and strategies will help with building your armies and there are interesting scenarios included. Whether this is a new period for you, or you are looking to refresh your existing interest in the period, this handy guide is sure to hold much if interest.

136 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2017

Reviews

[Ned Leffingwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is intended for the wargamer who is interested in the Early Imperial Roman period. The book goes over history, how the Roman army was arranged and fought, and their main enemies. It also has brief overviews of various rules that can be used to fight ancient battles. My favorite section was the scenarios, which could be used for any ancients, medieval, or fantasy game with some adaptation.

[David Cuatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like the title suggests, this is a brief overview of the Early Roman Empire from a wargamer's perspective. Emphasis is on army structure, armor and weapons, tactics, enemies, etc. Lots of nice pictures of miniatures, scenario ideas and even a brief campaign. If you're looking for in-depth history, this isn't it. But if you are wanting to explore this time period for wargaming this book is a great place to start.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great overview of wargaming during the first Three Centuries AD

Very well written with lots of details and enough history to explain how things work. If you are interested in Roman historical wargaming, it’s a great read!

[Joe Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for wargamer beginners in to this period of time. It covers a lot of useful material even for people with some basic knowledge of the subject.