Pyramid Review
Brunch at the Coliseum
Published by Inner City Games
Designed by Michael L. Leeke
Edited by Sara Geiser, Nita L. Lewis
Art by John M. Seaton, Jim Mitchell, and ArtToday
Arena map, two sheets of counters, 24-page rulebook, eight plastic character stands, ziplock bag; $7.95
If you're at all familiar with Inner City Games Designs' quirky line of mini-games, you might be inclined to think you know what's meant by the title of their game of gladiatorial combat Brunch at the Coliseum. You'd be right.
Everyone else at the circus that is the Coliseum is eating bread. You, well, you're trying not to become the next meal for a ravaging lion released into the arena with you. Armed only with a loincloth, you must scavenge what you can through the kindness of strangers. Pleas made to the crowds in the stands may get some valuable equipment thrown to you . . . or, if they're in a playful mood, thrown at you. They'll toss food, bits of armor, a knife, or even a sword if you're lucky. Assuming you haven't been consumed by then, you can grab the goods and turn on your oppressor.
That's if you're a slave. If you're a gladiator, this sort of begging isn't a factor. You already have a full kit of equipment. Decked out in armor, you step boldly into the ring and try to slay the Emperor's slaves before they get their hands on some decent gear, or the lion before it savages your throat. This is your chance for glory, and to maybe live past sunset.
. . .This article originally appeared in the second volume of Pyramid. See the current Pyramid website for more information.
Article publication date: January 24, 2003
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