Seljuk: Byzantium Besieged, 1068-1071

About this board game

Seljuk: Byzantium Besieged, 1068-1071 is a 1-2 player historical strategy game that plays in about 360 minutes, placing players in command of the Eastern Romans or Seljuk Turks during the struggle for Anatolia.

Set after Romanos Diogenes assumes the imperial throne in 1068, the game recreates the pressure facing the Eastern Roman Empire. Seljuk armies ravage border cities and launch yearly raids while political intrigue in Constantinople complicates the effort to assemble a powerful Roman army.

As Volume V in Volko Ruhnke’s Levy & Campaign series, the game focuses on medieval logistics and maneuver across Asia Minor. Its asymmetric victory objectives and distinctive additions to the system create a dynamic contest in which each side must pursue a different path to success.

• Seljuk forces: Vast numbers of Turkic horse, including fast mounted units skilled with composite bows, can raid Roman lands and carry away loot.
• Roman forces: Heavily armored infantry and mounted Tagmata offer strength, while the few Themata frontier garrisons are difficult to replace.
• Strategic tension: Roman stationary units must be used carefully to defend against ravaging or protect walled towns and cities from siege.
• Uncertain loyalties: Allied Lords on either side may switch allegiance, adding political risk to military planning.

The Seljuks bring together local vassal states loyal to Sultan Alp Arslan and steppe tribes from Central Asia. The Romans must overcome fragile military resources and the threat of collapse while preparing for a decisive confrontation.

In Seljuk: Byzantium Besieged, 1068-1071, every campaign can shape the road to the climactic Battle of Manzikert. Can the Romans defend the Empire and make conquest seem too costly, or will the Seljuks achieve a historic victory and capture the Roman Emperor?