Judean Hammer

About this board game

Judean Hammer is a two-player wargame about the tense struggle between the Maccabean rebels and the Seleucid Greeks, with play lasting around 90 minutes. Released in 2021, it offers a fast-playing contest with a lightning-fast setup.

The Greeks begin in their unassailable supply centers and control Jerusalem, while the Maccabeans must use ambushes and strategic pressure to weaken their opponent. Cutting off Greek supply is central to the rebel effort, creating a sharp conflict between maintaining control and finding the right moment to strike.

At the heart of the game is a contest for critical cities across the region, especially Jerusalem. Players use cards to move units, recruit units, or activate a special ability that benefits only their faction.

• Two-player conflict between the Maccabeans and Seleucid Greeks
• Card-driven movement, recruitment, and faction abilities
• Ambushes and supply disruption as key tools for the rebels
• Competition for critical cities and victory points

Both sides draw from a single deck, making every card choice consequential. The more special ability cards you play, the weaker your side becomes in combat, forcing you to weigh immediate advantages against future strength.

In Judean Hammer, players must decide whether to push for an early lead by capturing important regions and building a victory point advantage, or hold back while their opponent spends valuable strength. A carefully timed final attack can turn a seemingly secure position into a last-minute victory.