Braccio da Montone

About this board game

Braccio da Montone is a two-player historical battle game with an approximately 300-minute playing time, released in 2012. It simulates two major battles fought by the condottiero Braccio da Montone: Sant’Egidio on July 12, 1416, and L’Aquila on June 2, 1424.

Rather than using conventional turns, the game unfolds through a continuous series of Condottiero activations. When a leader is activated, their Command Capacity determines the number of order points available. These points are used to move, fire, and attack with units from the leader’s own Battaglia.

This command system emphasizes the fatigue of armies as the battle progresses. It is combined with rules reflecting the different tactics associated with Braccio da Montone, known as the Scuola Braccesca. The Victory Level mechanic adds uncertainty by making it unclear how much further the game has to go.

The game’s physical scale supports detailed battlefield movement and combat. Each hex represents 100 meters, or about 110 yards, while strength points represent different numbers of troops depending on their type:

• Cavalry: 100–200 men per strength point
• Infantry: 250–500 men per strength point
• Militia: 750–1,000 men per strength point

Braccio da Montone includes two maps, die-cut counters, three player aid cards, and a rule booklet containing scenarios and historical background. It is the third game in the series that began with Guelphs and Ghibellines.