Through Ages: A New Story of Civilization? Prepare for Epic Decisions and a Tapestry of History!

Through Ages: A New Story of Civilization? Prepare for Epic Decisions and a Tapestry of History!

“Through Ages” isn’t your typical civilization builder. Imagine Civilization, but with a heavier dose of card-driven strategy and a dash of deckbuilding thrown in for good measure. This gem from publisher Playdek takes the grand sweep of history and distills it into a compelling tableau-building experience.

The game unfolds over three “Ages” – Antiquity, Middle Ages, and Renaissance. Each Age presents unique challenges and opportunities, with civilizations vying for dominance through technological advancement, cultural influence, and military might. But here’s where “Through Ages” diverges from its Civilization cousins: you build your civilization not through sprawling cities and infrastructure but through meticulously curated decks of cards.

These cards represent everything from renowned historical figures like Julius Caesar or Cleopatra to monumental wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and crucial technologies like gunpowder. As the game progresses, you draft cards from a shared pool, carefully selecting those that best align with your chosen civilization’s strengths and your strategic goals. A wise leader will balance military power with scientific progress, economic growth with cultural enrichment. Neglect one aspect, and your rivals may seize the opportunity to outmaneuver you on the world stage.

Building Your Civilizational Engine: The Art of Deckbuilding in “Through Ages”

The heart of “Through Ages” lies in its innovative deckbuilding mechanics. Imagine it as a grand symphony of cards – each playing a unique role in your civilization’s ascendance. You begin with a humble starter deck, but as the game progresses, you draft new cards from an ever-evolving pool.

These cards can be broadly categorized into:

  • Action Cards: These cards fuel your civilization’s engine. They might let you build wonders, conduct research, produce food or resources, train armies, or even wage war against your opponents.

  • Development Cards: Think of these as the long-term investments in your civilization. They represent advancements in technology, culture, or government that unlock powerful bonuses and grant unique abilities.

  • Leader Cards: These embody the spirit of historical figures who shaped civilizations. Each Leader card bestows a special ability or bonus on your civilization, reflecting their legendary accomplishments.

The trick is to find synergy between your cards – a well-constructed deck will allow you to leverage each card’s strengths while mitigating its weaknesses. For instance, pairing a “Military Training” action card with a “Bronze Weapons” development card could give you a significant advantage on the battlefield.

Navigating the Tides of History: The Flow of Turns and Ages in “Through Ages”

The game unfolds over a series of rounds, each representing a turn within an Age. During your turn, you have several options:

  • Play Cards: Activate the powerful effects of your Action cards to build wonders, advance technologies, or engage in diplomacy.

  • Develop Your Civilization: Invest in Development cards that provide long-term benefits and unlock new possibilities for your civilization.

  • Wage War (if necessary!): Lead your armies against rival civilizations, capturing territories and gaining military prestige. Be warned – war is a risky business with consequences both positive and negative!

  • Pass Your Turn: Sometimes the wisest move is to bide your time and assess the situation before making a decisive play.

As the game progresses through the three Ages, new challenges arise: the Middle Ages bring the complexities of feudalism and religious fervor; the Renaissance introduces the power of printing presses and exploration. Throughout it all, you’ll need to adapt your strategy to the ever-changing landscape of history.

“Through Ages”: A Tapestry of Strategy, History, and Luck

“Through Ages” is a game that rewards careful planning and strategic decision-making but also embraces an element of chance. The drafting phase introduces a degree of randomness – you won’t always get the cards you want, forcing you to adapt on the fly.

This blend of strategy and luck makes “Through Ages” endlessly replayable. Each game tells a unique story as civilizations rise and fall, forging alliances, waging wars, and leaving their mark on the annals of history.

If you’re looking for a strategic experience that transcends the typical Civilization formula, “Through Ages” is an excellent choice. Prepare to be captivated by its rich historical backdrop, challenging gameplay, and the sheer joy of building a civilization from humble beginnings to an empire spanning the ages.