History of the World (board game)

History of the World is a board game designed by Richard H. Berg and originally published by Avalon Hill in 1991. It is a grand strategy game that simulates the rise and fall of empires over the course of seven epochs. Players take on the role of different empires each epoch, vying for control of territories across the globe.

Gameplay: The game board is divided into regions, each representing a geographical area. Players receive Empire cards at the beginning of each epoch, dictating which empire they will control and the number of armies they receive. These armies are then deployed onto the board to conquer regions. Combat is resolved through dice rolls, modified by factors such as leadership, terrain, and special abilities.

Epochs: The game progresses through seven epochs, each representing a significant period in world history. The empires available to players change each epoch, reflecting the shifting power dynamics of the time. As epochs advance, new technologies and events are introduced that can impact gameplay.

Victory: Victory is determined by accumulating victory points. Players earn victory points for controlling territories, completing objectives outlined on their Empire cards, and triggering certain events. The player with the most victory points at the end of the seventh epoch wins the game.

Key Mechanics:

• Area Control: A core mechanic is controlling regions on the board to gain resources and victory points.
• Dice-Based Combat: Combat is resolved through dice rolls, adding an element of chance to battles.
• Card-Driven Events: Empire cards and event cards introduce historical events and special abilities that can dramatically alter the course of the game.
• Epoch-Based Progression: The game is structured around distinct epochs, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities.
• Simultaneous Turns: Players take their turns simultaneously within each epoch, adding a layer of strategic planning and anticipation.

Themes and Scope: History of the World aims to provide a broad overview of world history, although it necessarily simplifies complex historical events. The game covers a vast scope, encompassing empires from ancient times to the modern era.

Editions and Expansions: The game has been re-implemented by various publishers, including Hasbro (Wizards of the Coast) and Z-Man Games. Some editions include updated rules and components. Expansions and variants have been released to add new empires, rules, and scenarios to the game.