The best games set in the ancient times 🏛 2024

Looking for a really good game that takes place during the ancient times 🏛? Then we have just the thing: our list of the best games that play during the ancient times 2024.

What are games set during the ancient times?

Ancient games often have themes or storylines set in the ancient world, between 3000 BC (the beginning of the Egyptian dynasties) and 476 AD (the fall of the Western Roman Empire). Some of the themes and images that appear in the most popular games of the ancient world concern the ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman civilizations.

List of the best games set during the ancient times 2024 🏛

This list was last updated on November 6, 2024. We compared 1944 board games for this list and selected the top 30. There's also a print version for this list.
  1. 7 Wonders Duel

    All details for the board game 7 Wonders Duel and similar games

    7 Wonders Duel takes the essence of the classic 7 Wonders and refines it for an intense two-player experience. It retains the thematic elements of building a civilization through acquiring various types of cards, but it introduces unique mechanics suited for a duel.

    Nominated for 16 awards and won 9.

    More details for 7 Wonders Duel
    • 2 Players
    • 30 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn

    Video reviews for 7 Wonders Duel

    • YouTube Review for the game "7 Wonders Duel" by Shut Up & Sit Down
      Video is in English
  2. Santorini

    All details for the board game Santorini and similar games

    Santorini is a beautifully re-imagined strategy game that combines abstract elements with accessible gameplay, suitable for a wide range of players.

    Nominated for 7 awards.

    More details for Santorini
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 20 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  3. Akropolis

    All details for the board game Akropolis and similar games

    Akropolis is a strategic board game set in ancient Greece, where players take on the roles of skilled architects competing to build the most prestigious city. The game focuses on urban planning, resource management, and tactical tile placement.

    Nominated for 19 awards and won 10.

    More details for Akropolis
    • 1 - 4 Players
    • 20 - 30 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  4. 7 Wonders: Architects

    All details for the board game 7 Wonders: Architects and similar games

    7 Wonders: Architects invites 2-7 players into a fast-paced race to leave a lasting legacy in the ancient world by constructing an architectural marvel. Each player starts with an unconstructed wonder and embarks on a journey to gather resources, develop their society, and achieve greatness.

    Nominated for 14 awards and won 5.

    More details for 7 Wonders: Architects
    • 2 - 7 Players
    • 25 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Immediately playable
  5. Battle Line

    All details for the board game Battle Line and similar games

    Battle Line is a strategic card game that pits two opponents against each other with the aim of capturing flags by creating powerful formations.

    More details for Battle Line
    • 2 Players
    • 30 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  6. 7 Wonders

    All details for the board game 7 Wonders and similar games

    In 7 Wonders, you step into the role of a leader of one of the seven great cities of the Ancient World. Your objective is to gather resources, establish commercial routes, and assert your military might. The game is not just about managing resources but also about building an architectural wonder that will stand the test of time.

    Nominated for 33 awards and won 19.

    ⭐️ Kennerspiel des Jahres 2011

    More details for 7 Wonders
    • 2 - 7 Players
    • 30 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  7. 7 Wonders (Second Edition)

    All details for the board game 7 Wonders (Second Edition) and similar games

    7 Wonders (Second Edition) is an acclaimed board game known for its widespread recognition and numerous international awards. This new version rejuvenates the classic 7 Wonders game, maintaining its status as a cornerstone in the world of modern board gaming. The game is celebrated for its elegant drafting mechanics, allowing up to 7 players to participate simultaneously without downtime.

    More details for 7 Wonders (Second Edition)
    • 3 - 7 Players
    • 30 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  8. Ra

    All details for the board game Ra and similar games

    Ra is an engaging board game that combines elements of auction and set-collection within an Ancient Egyptian theme. Players are immersed in a competition of power and fame across 1500 years of Egyptian history, condensed into an intense gaming experience.

    Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.

    More details for Ra
    • 2 - 5 Players
    • 45 - 60 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  9. Lost Ruins of Arnak

    All details for the board game Lost Ruins of Arnak and similar games

    Lost Ruins of Arnak is an adventurous board game that blends deck-building with worker placement, set on an unexplored island filled with remnants of an ancient civilization.

    Nominated for 30 awards and won 14.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Kennerspiel des Jahres 2021

    More details for Lost Ruins of Arnak
    • 1 - 4 Players
    • 30 - 120 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Medium difficulty
  10. Concordia

    All details for the board game Concordia and similar games

    Concordia is a peaceful yet strategic board game set in Roman times, focusing on economic development and expansion. It is designed for 2-5 players aged 13 and up.

    Nominated for 7 awards and won 2.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Kennerspiel des Jahres 2014

    More details for Concordia
    • 2 - 5 Players
    • 100 Minutes
    • 13+ years old
    • Medium difficulty

    Video reviews for Concordia

    • YouTube Review for the game "Concordia" by BoardGameGeek
      Video is in English
    • YouTube Review for the game "Concordia" by Shut Up & Sit Down
      Video is in English
  11. Dice Forge

    All details for the board game Dice Forge and similar games

    Embark on a heroic journey in Dice Forge, where the gods extend an invitation to heaven for the hero who can conquer their rivals. Your courage and wit will be crucial as you harness divine dice to collect resources on the path to victory.

    Nominated for 9 awards and won 1.

    More details for Dice Forge
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 45 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn

    Video reviews for Dice Forge

    • YouTube Review for the game "Dice Forge" by BoardGameGeek
      Video is in English
  12. Concordia Venus

    All details for the board game Concordia Venus and similar games

    Concordia Venus is a standalone reimplementation of the classic Concordia, enhancing the peaceful strategy game set in Roman times. It's designed for 2-6 players aged 13 and up, focusing on economic development without the randomness of dice or cards. Strategy and planning are key as players expand their influence across various Roman cities.

    Nominated for 1 award.

    More details for Concordia Venus
    • 2 - 6 Players
    • 60 - 120 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Medium difficulty

    Video reviews for Concordia Venus

    • YouTube Review for the game "Concordia Venus" by Shut Up & Sit Down
      Video is in English
    • YouTube Review for the game "Concordia Venus" by BoardGameGeek
      Video is in English
  13. The Downfall of Pompeii

    All details for the board game The Downfall of Pompeii and similar games

    The Downfall of Pompeii is a thematic and tactical board game that transports players to the ancient city of Pompeii, just before and during its catastrophic destruction by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The game combines strategic planning with an element of luck, as players attempt to save as many of their pieces as possible from the disaster.

    Nominated for 1 award and won 1.

    More details for The Downfall of Pompeii
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 45 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  14. Caesar's Empire

    All details for the board game Caesar's Empire and similar games

    Nominated for 1 award.

    More details for Caesar's Empire
    • 2 - 5 Players
    • 30 - 60 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Immediately playable
  15. Imhotep

    All details for the board game Imhotep and similar games

    Imhotep invites players into the ancient world of Egypt, where they compete as builders trying to leave their mark on history by constructing notable monuments.

    Nominated for 7 awards and won 2.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Spiel des Jahres 2016

    More details for Imhotep
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 40 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  16. Commands & Colors: Ancients

    All details for the board game Commands & Colors: Ancients and similar games

    Commands & Colors: Ancients is a historical wargame that spans a vast period from the Dawn of Military History to the onset of the Dark Ages. This game, part of the acclaimed Commands & Colors system, offers players a unique opportunity to reenact famous battles with a focus on historical accuracy and strategic depth, all while maintaining streamlined gameplay.

    Nominated for 5 awards and won 2.

    More details for Commands & Colors: Ancients
    • 2 Players
    • 60 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Medium difficulty
  17. Luxor

    All details for the board game Luxor and similar games

    In Luxor, players embark on an adventurous quest through the legendary temple of Luxor in search of treasures and the ultimate prize: the tomb of the pharaoh. This game stands out for its ever-changing path to the tomb, ensuring a unique experience in each playthrough.

    Nominated for 5 awards and won 1.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Spiel des Jahres 2018

    More details for Luxor
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 45 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  18. Fall of Rome

    All details for the board game Fall of Rome and similar games

    Pandemic: Fall of Rome is a unique cooperative board game that blends the classic gameplay of Pandemic with the historical setting of the Roman Empire's decline. In this game, players work together as citizens, soldiers, and allies of Rome, tasked with defending the empire against various barbarian tribes like the Anglo-Saxons, Goths, Vandals, and Huns. The game requires players to strategically recruit armies, fortify cities, and forge alliances to halt the onslaught of invaders.

    Nominated for 2 awards and won 1.

    More details for Fall of Rome
    • 1 - 5 Players
    • 45 - 60 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  19. Ave Caesar

    All details for the board game Ave Caesar and similar games

    Ave Caesar is a race game set in ancient Rome, where players maneuver chariots around the Circus Maximus using cards. The track design includes challenging elements like bottlenecks and lane restrictions, reminiscent of modern racing games like Detroit-Cleveland Grand Prix and Daytona 500. Players must complete three laps and make a strategic stop to 'Hail Caesar' before crossing the finish line. The game balances light strategy with the need for careful planning, especially when navigating corners.

    Nominated for 2 awards and won 2.

    More details for Ave Caesar
    • 2 - 6 Players
    • 30 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Immediately playable
  20. Archaeology: The Card Game

    All details for the board game Archaeology: The Card Game and similar games

    Archaeology: The Card Game immerses players in the thrilling world of Egyptian archaeology, where discovering ancient artifacts is the key to fame and fortune. Each player assumes the role of an archaeologist excavating sites in the Egyptian desert, aiming to uncover valuable treasures and sell them to the museum for profit.

    Nominated for 1 award and won 1.

    More details for Archaeology: The Card Game
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 20 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Immediately playable
  21. Roll Through the Ages: The Bronze Age

    All details for the board game Roll Through the Ages: The Bronze Age and similar games

    Roll Through the Ages: The Bronze Age is a captivating dice game that immerses players in the task of building and advancing their civilizations. This game combines elements of luck, strategy, and resource management, making it an engaging experience for players who enjoy civilization-building themes.

    Nominated for 10 awards and won 1.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Spiel des Jahres 2010

    More details for Roll Through the Ages: The Bronze Age
    • 1 - 4 Players
    • 30 - 45 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  22. Babylonia

    All details for the board game Babylonia and similar games
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 60 Minutes
    • 14+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  23. Carpe Diem

    All details for the board game Carpe Diem and similar games

    In Carpe Diem, players step into the roles of wealthy patricians in ancient Rome, striving to build prosperous city districts and accumulate prestigious points. Designed by the accomplished game designer Stefan Feld, this board game offers a unique and engaging gaming experience.

    Nominated for 2 awards.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Kennerspiel des Jahres 2019

    More details for Carpe Diem
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 45 - 75 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Medium difficulty
  24. Rise of Augustus

    All details for the board game Rise of Augustus and similar games

    Rise of Augustus (also known simply as Augustus) is a tactical board game where players take on the role of powerful leaders during the era of Augustus Caesar, competing to complete various objectives for power and victory points. The game combines elements of strategic planning and luck, with a unique mechanism involving the drawing of symbols and the placement of legionnaire meeples.

    Nominated for 9 awards and won 3.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Spiel des Jahres 2013

    More details for Rise of Augustus
    • 2 - 6 Players
    • 30 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn

    Video reviews for Rise of Augustus

    • YouTube Review for the game "Rise of Augustus" by Shut Up & Sit Down
      Video is in English
  25. Living Forest

    All details for the board game Living Forest and similar games

    Living Forest is a captivating board game where players become nature spirits, striving to protect a sacred forest and its tree from the destructive flames of Onibi. With the help of animal guardians, players work to save the forest through a combination of strategy, luck, and cooperation.

    Nominated for 10 awards and won 3.

    ⭐️ Kennerspiel des Jahres 2022

    More details for Living Forest
    • 1 - 4 Players
    • 40 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  26. Thebes

    All details for the board game Thebes and similar games

    Thebes is a board game focused on competitive archaeology, where players assume the roles of archaeologists exploring historical sites across Europe, northern Africa, and the Middle East. The game combines strategy, time management, and a bit of luck, making it an engaging experience for players interested in history and exploration.

    Nominated for 11 awards and won 1.

    ⭐️ Nominated for Spiel des Jahres 2007

    More details for Thebes
    • 2 - 4 Players
    • 60 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  27. Atlantis Rising (Second Edition)

    All details for the board game Atlantis Rising (Second Edition) and similar games

    Atlantis Rising (Second Edition) is a beautifully reimagined version of the beloved cooperative worker placement game where players unite to save the mythical island of Atlantis from inevitable doom. As leaders of Atlantis, players collaborate to gather resources, manage the workforce, and construct a cosmic gate capable of saving the Atlantean populace from the rising tides. The game challenges players with a blend of strategic planning, resource management, and a pressing urgency to complete the gate before the island succumbs to the ocean.

    Nominated for 2 awards.

    More details for Atlantis Rising (Second Edition)
    • 1 - 7 Players
    • 60 - 120 Minutes
    • 10+ years old
    • Easy to learn
  28. Shifting Stones

    All details for the board game Shifting Stones and similar games

    Nominated for 1 award and won 1.

    More details for Shifting Stones
    • 1 - 5 Players
    • 20 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Immediately playable
  29. Raiders of Scythia

    All details for the board game Raiders of Scythia and similar games

    Raiders of Scythia is a captivating board game that takes players back to the era of the Greek, Persian, and Assyrian empires, focusing on the formidable warriors known as the Raiders of Scythia. Renowned for their combat prowess and craftsmanship, players in this game take on the roles of these raiders, aiming to amass victory points through various daring raids, quests, and acquisitions of treasures.

    More details for Raiders of Scythia
    • 1 - 4 Players
    • 60 - 80 Minutes
    • 12+ years old
    • Medium difficulty
  30. Tides of Time

    All details for the board game Tides of Time and similar games

    Imagine a world where ancient civilizations rise and fall as epochs pass. In Tides of Time, two players embark on a strategic journey through time, where they take on the roles of cunning rulers guiding their civilizations to glory. The game unfolds over three rounds, during which players must carefully draft cards from their hands to construct magnificent kingdoms, all while striving to meet specific scoring objectives. As the ages progress, the choices made by each ruler will determine the course of history. Here's a closer look at the gameplay and special features:

    Nominated for 3 awards.

    More details for Tides of Time
    • 2 Players
    • 15 - 20 Minutes
    • 8+ years old
    • Easy to learn

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