Hannibal & Hamilcar

Setting up Hannibal & Hamilcar involves selecting either the Hannibal or Hamilcar scenario, placing the corresponding 2-sided game board, and distributing the appropriate components. Players take their respective player aids, strategy cards, general markers, combat units, warships, and supply trains. Initial troop and naval placements are made in accordance with the scenario rules, establishing the starting positions for Rome and Carthage.

The core objective of the game is to achieve supremacy over the Mediterranean through a combination of military conquest and political influence. Players strive to control key provinces, cities, and sea lanes, shifting political control markers in their favor while neutralizing enemy forces and leadership.

Turns are structured around card-driven mechanics. Players draw strategy cards and use them to activate generals, initiate land or naval movement, engage in combat, or execute political influence operations. Sequence phases govern interceptions, pre-battle preparations, combat resolution, and post-battle aftermaths.

Scoring and advantage are tracked through political control markers, provincial points, and naval supremacy tokens. Holding naval supremacy grants bonuses in sieges and naval battles, while successful regional campaigns and controlled territories contribute directly to a player's standing and path to victory.

The game concludes upon the completion of the scenario's final round or when a player triggers an automatic victory condition, such as dominating core regions or eliminating key opposing leaders. Final tallies determine the ultimate victor.