Armati Strategos Web Site

An Introduction
to Armati
by Arty Conliffe

Armati is a complete rules system that simulates the battlefield tactics of Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance armies. It is the product of the many good criticisms from gamers on my original TACTICA system. The rules reflect additional historical research allied with new design concepts. The improvements from the original game fall into three categories: army composition; additional opponents; and rules methodology. Each Armati army can be assembled in three sizes, so that players may build them to suit both their financial resources and desired "look." 130 Armies are included, divided into six periods, thereby permitting a greater array of "eligible" opponents within each period. Armati is useable in tournaments, especially since the rules permit a player to modify his army composition without violating the character of the army. The game is mechanically simple-a battle can be fought in less than two hours even when using the Advanced Rules.

Armati emphasizes careful battle-planning and execution on the part of the player-general, as modified by the particular army system the general commands. The original unpublished TACTICA used a system of battleline unity defined by deploying the units of a phalanx in a single contiguous body and operating it as such. The published version was the first Ancients game to emphasize the battleline rather than individual units. Medieval TACTICA introduced a system of "battles" to control multi-unit operations. Armati combines all three approaches into a unified command system. The present system emphasizes unit Divisions, formed by the player-general, but restricted by the historical flexibility of the particular army. Essentially, units operate in Divisions but fight as units. Armati stresses the tactical generalities inherent in warfare rather than the exceptional battlefield occurrences in particular battles. These instances are better represented by dedicated battle scenarios. To reduce the advantages of a player's "helicopter view" and to provide a more believable simulation of "ancient" warfare, Armati does not permit the free-wheeling unit maneuvers common to other rules sets. Unit movement is controlled, especially when in close proximity to the enemy. The General's plan of battle is critical to success because it cannot be altered from moment to moment.

All armies were not tactically equal in flexibility and doctrine. Throughout history, the more flexible systems were often the ones that could divide their armies into a greater number of semi-independent parts (wings, battles, lines, etc.). Systems developed as a result of battle experience, new training methods and improved command structures. Thus, Caesar's Legiones could accomplish more tactically than Leonidas' Spartans, or even Alexander's veterans. These systemic differences are emphasized because they lie at the core of military evolution. Using the Initiative Ratings and Command System, Armati reflects the capabilities of history's great armies, as modified by you the general and your worthy opponent.

Like TACTICA, Armati represents soldier types based on their tactical usage rather than their weapons and armor, although equipment contributes to a unit's fighting efficiency. Armati's combat system (its Missile and Melee mechanics) emphasizes tactical situation management not theoretical weapon effectiveness. Only the most important tactical modifiers are included. One final note. Armati is not a replacement for TACTICA; the two games have very different mechanics and emotional "feels" to them. I will continue to support both games and answer all questions via normal (Snail) mail, providing that a SASE is enclosed. My address is 2818 Dudley Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461.

Long Life & Victory!

Arty Conliffe