Pillars of Heracles
Step into the realm of legends
- In this enthralling, highly interactive hybrid, area control deckbuilding strategy board game for 1-4 players, that plays roughly 30 minutes per player, you can become a true hero of Greece. Tasked with leading and shaping the fate of your city-state in a bid to make it the most glorious one that will stand the test of time, you will
- deploy and command your units on the map,
- build awe-inspiring structures,
- settle new territories, and challenge formidable rivals for dominance over regions and expand your network of cities,
- face ruthless Barbarian forces,
- carefully manage and utilize resources,
- fulfill prophecies,
- call upon the mighty creatures of the Greek Pantheon, and
- make progress toward new heights of civilization.
- Game design by Tamás Oláh, creator of our critically acclaimed game, Ahau: Rulers of Yucatán.
Experience Ancient Greece Like Never Before
- Pillars of Heracles is your ultimate Ancient Greek board game experience.
- Prepare to be amazed as we combine area control, engine building, deckbuilding, hand management, multi-use cards, set collection, and a groundbreaking twist on the rondel mechanism and card-driven play.
- We've poured over 3 years of hard work and dedication into creating this masterpiece, with intense playtesting, expert consultations, and over 100 stunning illustrations to bring the Archaic period in Greece to life.
Stunning Visuals
- The double-sided game board features the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea to accommodate diverse scenarios and strategies.
- The game's appeal is further enriched by beautifully crafted illustrations of Dávid Szabó, inspired by period art, checked by a historian, and meticulously detailed to bring Ancient Greece's grandeur to life.
- Each component in the game, from the player pieces to the cards, is the result of careful craftsmanship, resonating with clear and concise graphic design. This ensures an intuitive gaming experience for players of all skill levels.
Join Us ON An Epic Journey...
- ...through the Archaic Period (cca. between 8th-6th century BC), when mighty Greek city-states, driven by population growth, a quest for economic opportunities, and a pioneering spirit, were discovering the vast Mediterranean shoreline, and establishing new settlements along the way.
- Your epic journey aims for the role of the Supreme Archon of ancient Greece. Secure victory by controlling more cities and regions, building more monuments and fulfilling more prophecies than your rivals.
Gameplay Overview
From Humble beginnings to a Mighty Empire
- Welcome to the exciting world of city-state leadership! Picture yourself at the dawn of the Archaic period, guiding your fledgling city-state towards greatness.
- You can choose from 1 of the 18 playable city-states, each with unique powers, starting locations and starting bonuses.
- Your journey begins with a worker, a hoplite, a pillar, and a City on your starting territory. But don't limit yourself there! Expand your influence and power across the map as the game progresses. Deploy more units, construct buildings. To make progress and shape the destiny of your city-state, assert your authority over spaces occupied by other players' buildings, cities, or pillars, or seize control over whole regions.
- Will you emerge victorious in this captivating battle for dominance? Only time will tell!
Area Control At Its Best Including an Optional Skirmish Mode
- Are you a fan of strategy games that challenge you to think critically and outmaneuver your opponents? If so, then our game is just what you need!
- Through deploying and navigating your forces, our game offers engaging gameplay that will keep you on your toes.
- Whether you prefer peaceful gameplay or high-stakes confrontation, we've got you covered.
- In the Standard Game, players compete for cities and regions, but cannot directly attack each other. But using an optional ruleset called the Skirmish Mode, you can attack other players, and destroy their units, buildings, pillars or even take over their cities.
Deckbuilding And Hand Management Goodness
- At the start, you'll possess a deck of 10 basic cards, but fear not! As the game unfolds, you'll have the opportunity to upgrade your deck with influential characters from the era and awe-inspiring monuments, each giving an unique ability when played.
- In each turn, you must decide how to use your cards in your hand: (A) to advance on the Rondel (Action Selection Wheel) and trigger a main action (drafting more cards into your deck, constructing buildings or cities, deploying forces, settling foreign land, or ascending on tracks) or (B) used as resources for these main actions?
- Your pillars on the game board are not just a memento of your conquests, but can also be used to deplete resources on the map.
A World of Myth and Strategy
- As you delve into this intricately designed world, encounter iconic figures from Greek history and mythology.
- Pave your way to victory through the help of illustrious characters of the Greek Pantheon, from Demigods to Titans and even the mighty Olympians, each with their unique powers, ready to be used on your turn or even on another player's turn!
- To make them truly feel like powerful and divine interventions, Mythology Cards can be used at any time, even sometimes on another player's turn. This encourages interaction and table talk among players. You don't want me to use my Zeus card to destroy your City? Let's talk first!
Every decision matters...
...as it brings with it consequences that can propel or derail your civilization's fortunes. In this thrilling adventure where danger lurks behind every corner, will you be able to navigate treacherous waters, trade your way to good fortune, and reign supreme on unknown lands? Embark on this journey with us to determine what legend will be created by your actions!
An Odyssey to Archaic Greece
Unleash your Inner Hero
- Step into the world of Pillars of Heracles and experience Archaic Greece like never before. This period, a time of flourishing civilizations and mythical heroes, sets the stage for our epic board game.
- Immerse yourself in a realm where legendary figures like Heracles, Perseus, and Theseus walked among men and the gods themselves intervened in mortal affairs.
- The game is steeped in the rich and enthralling tapestry of Greek mythos – a universe where gods, demigods, and mortal heroes intertwine. From the mighty Zeus, king of the gods, to the cunning Athena, goddess of wisdom and warfare, these deities can be your greatest allies or your most formidable foes. Be careful, for their favor is as unpredictable as the seas Poseidon rules!
Witness the Advancement of Civilization
- As you navigate your hero's journey, you also get to witness firsthand the rise of Greek civilization. Watch as your city-state evolves, from modest beginnings to a thriving metropolis, enjoying the benefits of a network of structures and cities.
- During this age, several city-states competed for dominance, and each had its own set of laws, customs, style of warfare, currency, etc. This set the stage for the magnificent Classic period (that most people identify with 'ancient Greece'), Alexander the Great, and the Hellenistic period.
- Every decision you make, every alliance you forge, every war you wage – each plays a role in the advancement of your society. You hold the power to shape history in this vibrant and volatile era.
Discover the Power of Greek Female Figures
- Delve into the profound stories of goddesses, including Athena, the goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, whose intellect and prowess in battle are unmatched; or Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, who wields her own kind of power in the hearts of gods and men alike.
- Pillars of Heracles shines a light on the unsung heroes of Ancient Greece. Explore the world of the artisans behind the stunningly intricate amphoras, the midwives whose wisdom shaped generations, and influential rulers like Queen Gorgo of Sparta, famed for her intellect and strategy. In the immersive world of Pillars of Heracles, every small contribution can leave a lasting legacy.
The Pillars
- The Pillars of Heracles - two promontories at the eastern entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar - marked the boundaries of the known world to ancient Greeks. They believed that beyond the Pillars lay the realm of the gods, and the mysterious lost city of Atlantis, hence the name of the Atlantic Ocean.
- According to Greek mythology, the Pillars were created by the hero Heracles himself. As part of his twelve labors, he was tasked with retrieving the golden apples of Hesperides, said to grant immortality to anyone who ate them. To find them, Heracles had to travel to the ends of the earth, across vast deserts and treacherous seas, and slay the dragon guarding the apples. As a mark of his journey, he created the Pillars of Heracles to commemorate his feat.
- Will you be bold enough to venture beyond these boundaries and conquer the divine realm and rule as the Supreme Archon of the Greeks?
The Pillars Team
Tamás Oláh - Game Design
- Tamás embarked on this project over three years ago, inspired by the Archaic period's explorations and cultural advancements.
- From a young age, Greek mythology's gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters have captivated him, fueling a lifelong passion that culminates in this game. It's both a tribute to Hellas' rich cultural legacy and a personal love letter.
- Tamás combines his love for history, particularly ancient high cultures, with his board game enthusiasm to create experiences that are not just entertaining but also educational and inspiring. He aims for immersive gameplay that echoes role-playing, offering a nuanced portrayal of each era.
Dávid Szabó - Art
- Dávid began his journey as a concept artist, evolving into a 2D artist and visual designer.
- He's been integral to several renowned game developer studios, contributing to celebrated titles like "Sim City," "CSI: NY," "Marvel Pinball," and "Rise of the Argonauts," eventually ascending to a 2D lead artist role.
- Since 2018, Dávid has thrived as a freelance concept artist/illustrator, leading a Budapest-based team on globally recognized mobile games and Kickstarter projects.
- Fascinated by mythological themes since childhood, especially ancient Greek mythology, working on "Pillars of Heracles" is a dream realized.
- In his leisure, Dávid indulges in painting, book illustration, and developing a mobile game with friends. Discover his captivating artwork on Artstation.
Rob Ingle - Graphic Design
- Rob is a seasoned designer and illustrator with 20 years of diverse experience and has worked in daytime TV, small agencies, and as the head of a design department in a financial services company.
- Now a key member of Stop, Drop & Roll Games in the UK, Rob is passionate about the tactile experience of tabletop games and the fact they can’t randomly crash mid-game. Rob is particularly fascinated by the assembly of games and the power of visuals to enhance a game's theme.
- "Pillars" resonates deeply with him, reminiscent of childhood hours spent immersed in Greek and Norse legends. Excited by the opportunity to work on "Pillars of Heracles" with Tamás, and collaborating with Dávid and his exceptional art.
Dániel Bándoli - 3D art
- Dániel Bándoli, our esteemed 3D artist, brings a fusion of artistry and passion to the team. With an art degree and initial experience as a 3D modeler in construction industry software, Dániel's board game hobby evolved into a professional pursuit.
- He transitioned into freelance digital sculpting and miniature design, collaborating with publishers like Karma Games and Tangerine Games. An avid gamer with a love for historical and mythical themes, Dániel's involvement in creating "Pillars of Heracles" is both a professional milestone and a personal delight.
Katalin Lóczi - Miniatures Printing & Painting
- Katalin, a skilled miniature painter, played a pivotal role in bringing the world of "Pillars of Heracles" to life.
- Specializing in painting board game figures and 3D printed miniature sculpts, Katalin's expertise was instrumental in creating the visually stunning units, buildings, pillars, and player markers for the game. Her passion for miniature art is not just a profession but a calling. You can see her portfolio and contact her at katiesminiart.
- Whether you're looking to enhance your gaming experience with beautifully painted figures or seeking unique miniature creations, Katalin's artistry can transform your vision into reality.
Viktor Csete - Prototype Printing
- Viktor stands unparalleled in crafting high-quality prototypes swiftly and efficiently, serving clients across all continents (Antarctica being the sole exception).
- His expertise extends beyond mere printing; Viktor actively contributes suggestions for improvement, showcasing his remarkable attention to detail.
- His work is synonymous with factory-grade quality – a testament to this is the exceptionally sturdy "Pillars of Heracles" prototype box, surpassing the durability of many commercial game boxes.
- Viktor is a skilled graphic designer, responsible for the professional 3D renders of the game, adding a layer of visual finesse to "Pillars of Heracles."
- He is set to bring his creative flair to the campaign video for "Pillars of Heracles." Explore his portfolio at www.tabletoptailors.com
Jan Heinemann - Consulting
- Jan, based in Hannover, Germany, is the consulting historian for "Pillars of Heracles".
- Specializing in Ancient Greece, particularly its cultural and social history during the Archaic and Classic periods, Jan delves beyond popular narratives like the Iliad, Odyssey, and the Greco-Persian Wars, exploring the rich, often overlooked aspects of Greek history. His focus includes the rise of new settlements (apoikiai) during the Archaic period, a time of significant transformation and exchange, themes central to "Pillars of Heracles."
- With a background in historical game studies, Jan is intrigued by how games stage the past. He has contributed as a developer and playtester to games like "Shores of Tripoli" and "Harper's Ferry: John Brown's Quest to End Slavery." Jan is also an active wargamer and admin at the International Kriegsspiel Society.
- He co-edited "EuroWarGames" a forthcoming book on the history and future of (war)gaming in Europe. Learn more about Jan at his About.me page.
Chris Spath - Editor
- Chris, the rulebook editor for "Pillars of Heracles," balances his life in the UK with his family and a career as a Chartered Accountant.
- Board games are a significant part of his family life. His passion for board games and attention to detail led him from proofreading to writing and editing rulebooks.
- Chris focuses on creating rulebooks that are clear, detailed, and user-friendly. After a successful collaboration with Tamás on "Ahau: Rulers of Yucatán," he eagerly joined the team for "Pillars of Heracles," excited to contribute to another engaging project.
Wade Fong - Virtual Tabletop Architect
- With a 15-year career in video game development, Wade is currently a Software Development Manager in California, working on the title "New World."
- His lifelong passion for gaming has recently expanded into tabletop games. Transitioning to management, Wade began scripting mods for Tabletop Simulator to maintain his connection to programming.
- He enjoys collaborating with game designers, helping to realize their visions from design to development. Scripting in Tabletop Simulator is a fulfilling hobby for Wade, and he first partnered with Tamás on "Ahau: Rulers Of Yucatán." Enthusiastic about their latest collaboration on "Pillars of Heracles," Wade invites everyone to explore the project on Kickstarter.