TABULA: The Roman Game, a Classic Strategy Game for 2 Players, from The Met

Believed to be the forerunner of Backgammon, Tabula was widely played throughout the Roman Empire. The Emperor Claudius (A.D. 41-54) was said to be so fond of the game that he had a board fixed to his chariot so that he could play while travelling.

Its appeal is understandable, for Tabula is still an excellent game. The opportunities for strategic play, combined with the chance throw of a pair of dice, makes for a uniquely exciting and challenging race round a board. Oxford Games’ Tabula (first published in 1990), with its beautifully illustrated board and translucent glass stones, is as visually appealing as it is fun to play.

As Tabula was one of Oxford Games’ top-selling games, they have plans to republish it soon. Meanwhile, there are few original 1990 sets of Tabula to be found, which sell as part of OG's Vintage Collection of games.