Fall of Rome Situation Room
INTRODUCTION
Who can save the Roman Empire from collapse? This situation room simulation is set in the 5th century CE during the decline and fall of the Roman Empire. Players take on the roles of advisors to the emperor, competing to identify and address the biggest problem facing Rome, all while struggling to manage the resources, manpower, and diplomacy of the Empire in a struggle for supremacy.
Rulebook
1. Setting the Stage:
a. The game is set in the 5th century CE during the decline and fall of the Roman Empire.
b. Players take on the roles of advisors to the emperor, competing to identify and address the biggest problem facing Rome.
2. Character Creation:
a. Each player creates a character with a unique background, skills, and expertise relevant to the challenges of the time.
b. Characters are assigned attributes such as intelligence, diplomacy, military strategy, and resource management.
3. Identifying the Problem:
a. Players must gather information by completing quests, interacting with non-player characters (NPCs), and exploring the game world.
b. The emperor presents various issues, and players must convince him which one is the most critical.
4. Competing for Influence:
a. Players earn influence points by successfully completing quests, solving problems, and presenting persuasive arguments to the emperor.
b. Influence points can be spent to gain advantages, gather intelligence, or sabotage opponents.
5. Diplomacy and Alliances:
a. Players can form alliances with each other or with NPC factions to strengthen their positions.
b. Diplomacy skills play a crucial role in negotiating alliances and managing political relationships.
6. Resource Management:
a. Players must manage resources such as gold, food, and manpower to address the challenges they identify.
b. Wise resource allocation enhances a player's ability to implement solutions effectively.
7. Military Campaigns:
a. Military prowess is a key aspect of the game. Players can lead armies to address external threats or internal rebellions.
b. Successful military campaigns can earn players additional influence points.
8. Time Management:
a. The game progresses through a series of rounds, each representing a set period of time.
b. Players must balance their time between gathering information, implementing solutions, and dealing with unforeseen events.
9. Random Events:
a. Random events, representing historical developments, can impact the game. Players must adapt their strategies accordingly.
b. Events may include barbarian invasions, political intrigues, economic crises, and more.
10. Endgame:
a. The game concludes with a final round where players present their solutions to the emperor.
b. The player with the most influence points and successfully addressed problems wins, earning the emperor's favor and securing their place in history.
Optional Rule: Betrayal and Intrigue:
a. Players can choose to engage in covert actions against each other, including espionage, sabotage, and assassination.
b. Betrayal adds an element of uncertainty, making alliances more fragile and diplomacy more challenging.
CHARACTER PROFILES
•Lucilla Valerius Maximus - Crisis of manpower (workers and military) and over-reliance upon slaves
• Quintus Marcellus Aelianus - Loss of Romanitas and the rise of Christianity
• Octavius Lucilianus Decimus - Costs of Empire and Inflation
• Titus Severus Agrippa - Barbarian Invasions
RESOURCES
Background Reading (Required) — Fall of Rome (OER Project)
You may use the following links may be helpful in preparing your arguments:
• Watch Crash Course World History
• History Channel - 8 Reasons for the Fall of Rome
• Ten Theories on the Fall of Rome Reading.pdf