The Bottom Line
Clash of the Gladiators puts players in an arena filled with gladiators battling to the death, fighting other gladiator teams and a variety of ferocious animals.
Pros
- Fun, fast-paced, beer-and-pretzels style game.
- No player is ever completely eliminated.
- The gladiator theme is executed well.
Cons
- Limited opportunity for strategy.
- Some people won't like the suggested violence.
Description
- For 2 to 5 players.
- About 45 minutes to play.
- Designed by Reiner Knizia.
- Published by Rio Grande Games.
Guide Review - Clash of the Gladiators
Players begin Clash of the Gladiators by choosing their gladiator teams, selecting from spear holders, net casters, swordsmen, shield carriers, and prong bearers.
Each gladiator type has different skills, so building balanced teams (four gladiators per team) is key. Next, the teams begin fighting each other and the animals in dice-based battles. When all of a player's teams have been eliminated, he takes control of the animals. At the end of the game, each defeated gladiator is worth one point; each defeated animal is worth two.
Designer Reiner Knizia is better known for more complex games, but Clash of the Gladiators is a guilty pleasure worth playing again and again.
