Blood On The Sands – A Game of Gladiatorial Combat

Blood on the Sands is a historically inspired, hex-grid miniatures wargame where players control and manage a school of gladiators (a ludus) in ancient Rome. Blending skirmish combat with campaign mechanics, the game focuses on tactical, one-on-one duels that capture the dynamic, back-and-forth rhythm of actual gladiatorial bloodsports.

Core Gameplay & Mechanics
  • Historically Authentic Classes: The game features historically researched armaturae (e.g., Thraex, Retiarius, Secutor, Murmillo), utilizing real-world equipment, armor advantages, and distinct combat styles.
  • Action Dice System: Players utilize a dice pool where results dictate their available actions. Dice allow you to maneuver, use basic attacks, trigger class-specific special attacks, defend, or spend ‘restbite’ actions to manage fatigue and audience favor. The number six acts as a “laurel” wildcard token.
  • Fatigue over Lethality: Instead of focusing on simple, instant-kill mechanics, the game simulates the physical toll of combat. Managing your gladiator’s stamina is crucial to prevent them from becoming exhausted and vulnerable.
  • Crowd Favor: The mood of the audience plays an active role in how fights resolve, swaying between favoring a skilled fighter or demanding a brutal finish.
Campaign Mode
  • Become a Lanista: The game truly shines in its campaign mode, where players step into the boots of a lanista (trainer).
  • School Management: You recruit and manage a stable of fighters, carefully matching them against opposing gladiators to avoid unnecessary injuries while trying to build fame.
  • Progression & Death: Gladiators gain traits and experience as they survive, but the risk of permanent death means you must weigh the risks of throwing your favorites to the mob.
Genre: Ancients (up to 500 AD)
Scale: 28 mm
Average Models per Side: Less than 10
Number of Players: 2, 2+
Miniatures: Dedicated, STL for 3D Print
Rules: Purchased Hard Rulebook
Availability: Upcoming Release
Publisher: Dead Again Games
Designers: Frank Sultana
Additional Information:

Game Release is estimated for Mid to Late 2026

Wargames Atlantic is Producing a line of Plastic Miniatures to go with the game.   The Core Box set includes these figures

 

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Facebook:  Blood on the Sands Players’ Group

Youtube: Blood on the Sands Review by Mark’s Game Room

Youtube: How to Play Blood on the Sands by OnTableTop

Youtube: Blood on the Sands Let’s Play by Mark’s Game Room

Youtube: Blood on the Sands Overview by T’s Miniature Battlefields

 

Wargames Atlantic – Gladiators  (Not yet released)