Banish the Snakes is now available for pre-order! You can find more info or pre-order on the P500 page here.
A good historic simulation game will always tell a story; for Banish the Snakes, that is mostly accomplished through interaction with the Saints that appear in the game. St. Patrick is the best known of these Saints. Players direct the actions taken by these historic people – both men and women – and their successes and failures drive the game’s narrative.
The historic sources available for this time period is sparce. We have some good information about the dozen historic Saints in the game, and some others who did not make the “cut” to be included. And we have good information about the general social structure in Ireland during this time period. But we have only spotty information on individual political leaders from this era. Neil of the Nine Hostages is the most notable – and has the best sobriquet! And there is Benignus of Armagh, whose chieftain father features in a story about Patrick. They both have their own cards in the game. But for the most part, the chiefs, kings, and even high kings of the era remain anonymous.