Imperator

About this board game

Imperator is a two-player wargame covering Rome’s campaigns from Marcus Aurelius to Caracalla, with an approximately 480-minute play time. Released in 2002, it brings the conflicts of 161–217 AD to a strategic-level game of imperial warfare.

One player commands Rome proper. The other controls the assorted barbarians opposing Rome, as well as usurpers who can emerge through Stratagem chits. This opposing structure places Rome’s campaigns and internal challenges within the same contest.

The game also includes civil wars, ensuring that Rome’s threats are not limited to enemies beyond its borders. The area-movement map stretches from Scotland to Arabia, providing the setting for the game’s strategic operations.

• Designed for exactly two players
• Covers the period from 161 to 217 AD
• Features Rome against barbarians and generated usurpers
• Includes civil wars and Stratagem chits
• Uses area movement and a Combat Results Table

Movement across the map is handled through an area-movement system, while battles are resolved using a Combat Results Table. Together, these mechanics define how the opposing forces contest the broad territory represented on the map.

With its wide geographic scope and inclusion of both external campaigns and civil conflict, Imperator presents a focused two-player portrayal of Rome’s wars during a pivotal span of imperial history.