brynnfr wrote:
I like the Spartacus series on Starz and when I first saw the game I thought they were just trying to cash in on the semi-success of that series. After doing some research into it after seeing it and playing it, I am glad that's not what they did. They put an intriguing political, backstabbing game around the spectacle of the arena with all 4 players betting on different outcomes of fights and lots of dice rolling. It's a quirky mix but I think it melds it all together well and gives a good sense of environment with the theme.
I, and probably A LOT of gamers at Gencon had the same thought, but after watching a demo and talking to one of the designers for a bit I was sold. I think one reason this isn't your typical "licensed game" failure is that the designers approached Starz with their idea and got Starz blessing. It wasn't a case where Starz just kicked out some rules and cardboard for profit.
It is such a fun game (and great show) and anyone who misses out due to fear of the license is missing out on a fantastic game.