"Republic of Rome" is an abstracted game of over 250 years of history. It simulates the politics of the Roman Senate during the Republic. The players take the part of various families, combined into factions, vying for the control of the Senate, who compete for state offices, military command, economic concessions and new adherents. Each player gets dealt a number of these families at the start to form their faction and can add or lose them throughout the game. Each member of the faction is rated for military ability, oratory, loyalty and influence. To win the player must get their faction to become the most powerful in Rome. While doing this, however, a balance must be maintained. A hostile world situation, and the vagaries of the public of Rome, means that the players must also cooperate so that Rome herself does not go down under this pressure, so players "meet" each turn at the Senate. If Rome does not last, neither does the Senate, and all players lose! Three scenarios (Early, Middle and Late Republic) which can be formed for a Campaign game. Those who like "Diplomacy" would probably like this game, although this lacks its polish. Expect a steep learning curve. Typical playing time about three to four hours for the shorter scenarios.

Game components include : Gameboard, Counters, 3 decks of cards (64 ea. Deck), 6 Sequence of Play / Faction Treasury cards, 3 Dice (2 white & 1 colored) & 24-page Rule book.

Three to six players (w/ rules for Solitaire & two player games). Ages 12 & up. Avalon Hill.

Additional info: There were articles on this game in "The General" magazine:
Vol. 27 # 4
Vol. 28 # 2

An important note regarding Avalon Hill games - It was not unusual for Avalon Hill to re-publish most of their games with 2nd, 3rd or more Editions. Sometimes the game components changed, sometimes they didn't. If your game components do not correspond exactly with what is listed, do not despair. You may just have to do a little more checking to insure its completeness.
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