STRATEGIKON of Athens - What Is De Bellis Antiquitatis (DBA)?

De Bellis Antiquitatis (DBA) is a set of fast-play rules for ancient and medieval wargaming using miniature figures. It includes army lists for nearly 200 popular historical armies from the period 3000 BC to 1485 that can be used in the game. The 24 page rule book also includes simple rules for conducting campaign games.What makes DBA distinct from most rules systems is that all armies, regardless of their historical numbers, are comprised of twelve elements of 2-4 figures each representing a ratio of the predominant troop types in that particular army. The rule system is also designed for fast play, with typical games lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

With only 25-50 figures per army and with its quick play format, DBA provides an excellent introduction for newcomers to the hobby of miniature wargaming. The simplicity of the rules belies the opportunities for complex strategy and despite the rules abstractions there is a "historical feel" to the game. The low cost of fielding an army allows you to dabble in different periods and collect/paint a variety of colorful figures. The small size of the gaming area (2 by 2 feet with 15mm figures) means games can be played on a kitchen table. The short duration of the game allows you to enjoy the hobby without neglecting your family and other obligations. The DBA rules are also written so that players who want a more detailed and larger game can use their DBA elements with the De Bellis Multitudinus and other Wargame Research Group rules without rebasing.

DBA does not set a figure scale per se. The rules provide basing and movement scales for use with 2mm, 6mm, 15mm and 25mm figures. The basic scale is 1" = 100 paces (15mm or smaller) and one turn equals 15 minutes.

As noted above, an army is composed of 12 elements (stands). Miniatures are based one, two, three or four to an element according to their types. DBA divides troops into basic types that reflect common fighting tactics and/or equipment types. The basic element types incorporate classic foot (i.e. Auxilia, Blades, Bow, Pike, Psiloi, Spear, Warband), mounted troops (i.e. Camelry, Cavalry, Elephants, Light, Heavy or Scythed Chariots, Knights, Light Horse), and special troop types such as Artillery and War Wagons. There is no attempt to delineate elite from inferior units.

All aspects of the game (combat, movement, etc.) are resolved with a modified 6-sided die roll and by reference to the Rules book.

The latest published version of DBA (Version 1.1, published March 1995 by the Wargames Research Group) is available in most well-stocked wargaming shops and/or can be purchased directly from WRG or by mail order to major gaming retailers/wholesalers.

In June 1999, DBA co-author Phil Barker released a set of Official Amendments to DBA, dubbed DBA 1.2 and also announced forthcoming release of the DBA 2.0 edition in early 2000. It is anticipated that the rules changes outlined in DBA 1.2 that play-test well will find their way into the print edition of DBA 2.0 along with corrections to previous rules/army list errata.

Last Updated: June 27, 1999

Comments, suggested additions, and/or critiques welcome. Direct them to Chris Brantley at brant@erols.com.