Ludus Magnatus: Gladiator Manager Simulator (Early Access)

Start in Division VII with one of sixteen clubs, recruit fighters, equip them from the market, and climb the ladder through fully simulated seasons and matches. Start in Division VII with one of sixteen clubs, recruit fighters, equip them from the market, and climb the ladder through fully simulated seasons and matches with AI that plays exactly like players. Build momentum, overcome rival ludi, and carry your team toward promotion and the ultimate title of champion of the Empire. You start with nothing—an unknown lanista, with nothing but a little savings and your ludus to your name. Three full seasons (after a restart) have been played, and the emotions have been all over the place.

Men grow from slaves to famous gladiators, and one lesson becomes clear: never get emotionally invested in anybody, because the moment you do, they’ll walk in front of spears and die just to make you cry. Sarcasm aside, Ludus Magnatus: Gladiator Manager Simulator has great roots in Ludus Magnatus: Gladiator Manager Simulator. The idea is amazing, enjoyable, and once polished, the 3D arena engine will be so much fun to watch. Training can be managed in great detail, and it’s possible to get lucky and find ex-Doctores and Legendary Gladiators at the slave market. Training can be set up so first-pick gladiators beat on the reserves for the chance at a small stat increase. What’s not to like?

No major issues have been encountered so far, although the dual-wield weapon type does a LOT of damage compared to some others, and gladiators seem to attempt superman stabs/punches in close combat a little too often, sometimes causing them to jump 10 yards behind their target. A Legendary Gladiator was heavily trained for a solid six in-game months without gaining the Athletic, Weapon Master, or Strong traits. It’s unclear whether this is because Legendary Gladiators can’t gain those traits through training, or because their stats are already higher than the Doctore’s, preventing effective training. Both explanations would make sense, but it’s worth mentioning in case it’s unintended.

At the beginning of Ludus Magnatus: Gladiator Manager Simulator, it’s worth selling everyone with the Weak trait. A gladiator with no traits is generally a better investment than one with the Weak trait. Next, review everyone’s stats and choose a Doctore, as one is required to train gladiators. Don’t get attached, because they’ll likely need replacing fairly quickly. And for goodness’ sake, don’t make a gladiator with the Weak trait a Doctore! Why? Because whatever trait(s) the Doctore has can be passed down to gladiators. A Doctore with the Showman trait is a solid choice, granting a fame boost at the cost of being unable to wear a helm.