Rise and Fall

About this board game

Rise and Fall is a strategic game for 1–6 players about the last days of the Roman Empire, with play lasting up to 360 minutes.

Set during the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and the emergence of barbarian states, the game gives players control of one of four powers: Eastern Rome, Western Rome, Persia, or a barbarian horde. Each side takes part in a broad struggle shaped by national characteristics, leaders, and changing troop quality.

The game focuses on the political and military pressures surrounding Rome’s decline. Rebellions and revolution of troop quality are among its featured systems, adding distinctive challenges to this strategic portrayal of a major historical transition.

• Play as Eastern Rome, Western Rome, Persia, or a barbarian horde
• Features rebellions and revolution of troop quality
• Includes national characteristics and leaders
• Includes the civilizing of barbarian areas
• Offers solitaire rules

Rise and Fall supports different campaign lengths. A short campaign can last about two hours, while a long game can run for six hours or more, allowing players to choose between a shorter contest and an extended strategic experience.

Released in 1989, Rise and Fall presents the final days of Rome through a focused historical conflict involving imperial powers, Persia, and barbarian forces. Its combination of multiple factions, solitaire rules, rebellions, and changing troop quality provides a detailed strategic framework for exploring the empire’s decline and the rise of new states.