The Fall of Rome

The Fall of Rome is a turn-based strategy game set during the decline of the Roman Empire, beginning in 395 AD. Players assume control of the empire, managing its provinces and military forces to withstand invasions from barbarian tribes and neighboring powers over a series of 12 turns, each representing five years, culminating in 450 AD.

Gameplay is divided into three phases per turn: recruitment, movement, and combat. During recruitment, players allocate provincial income to raise new forces, choosing between mobile legions and static legions—the latter being less costly but immobile. The movement phase allows the redistribution of armies and treasury between adjacent provinces. In the combat phase, battles are resolved automatically, with outcomes based on the composition and positioning of forces. Additional units, such as cavalry and auxilia, can be recruited temporarily under specific conditions.

The game's interface is primarily text-based, supplemented by a simple map depicting the empire and surrounding regions, divided into provinces. The original packaging included a printed map to assist with strategic planning.