Arete

Arete is a hex-and-counter wargame about the military campaigns of Alexander the Great. You command the Macedonian army through eight scenarios, from fighting alongside his father, Philip II, to battles against the Persian army of King Darius III and the invasion of India in search of the “end of the world” in the East.

Game modes

Play solo quick games against computer opponents in scenarios based on pivotal battles, or follow a solo campaign through all eight scenarios and check your grades against Alexander’s. Pass-and-play lets players take turns commanding troops locally, while online play lets you compete against players worldwide.

A tutorial introduces the basics of ancient warfare. You can also consult the full rules, combat tables and historical material about Alexander and the context of each battle.

The computer opponent

The computer opponent uses multiple programmed behaviors, including attacking, defending and marching. Dice rolls are completely random; the challenge comes from the opponent’s programmed decision-making.

The battles

Each of the eight scenarios has its own map and distinct challenge:

• Chaeronea, 338 BC
• Granicus, 334 BC
• Issus, 333 BC
• Tyre, 332 BC
• Gaugamela, 331 BC
• Persian Gate, 330 BC
• Jaxartes, 329 BC
• Hydaspes, 326 BC

Maps and counters

The game includes eight exclusive hand-drawn maps and dozens of hand-drawn counters.