The Battle of Carrhae 53 B.C.

Armies

Parthian vs. Romans

Generals

Surena (Rustaham Suren-Pahlev) vs. Marcus Crasus

War

Roman-Persian Wars

Game Summary

High complexity, 63 battle groups, 20 game turns, Parthians move first.

Description

Marcus Crassus, the victor of the Spartacus slave revolt battles was desperate to earn a Roman Triumph.  To that end he started an unprovoked war against the Parthian's.  Although a commander of proven ability, against the advice of his commanders, he marched his army into a desolate landscape.  The seven well trained Roman legions and their supporting troops significantly outnumbered their Parthian foes.  This was not enough to save them from eventual defeat from a constant rain of arrows and hit and run attacks.

Player Notes

The 'red' Roman legionary battle groups shown as armed with pilum are 'superior' veterans.  The 'green' Roman legionary battle groups with swords are only 'average' new recruits and are extremely vunurable to attack by the Parthian Cataphracts.