En Garde!: A Swashbuckling Role-Playing Game of Gentleman Adventurers in 17th Century Paris by Darryl Hany

Introduction

Step into the glittering, dangerous world of 17th-century Paris, where honour is won with a blade and wit is as sharp as a rapier. En Garde!: Being in the Main, a Game of the Life and Times of a Gentleman Adventurer and His Several Companions by Darryl Hany is a classic role-playing experience that transports players to the age of musketeers, duels, and courtly intrigue. Published by Margam Evans Limited in a handsome hardcover edition, this book is not merely a game—it is an invitation to live a life of daring adventure, camaraderie, and swashbuckling excitement. Whether you are a seasoned gamer or a curious newcomer, this volume promises hours of immersive storytelling and strategic play, all set against the richly woven tapestry of Dumas and Rostand’s beloved literary world.

Book Overview

This definitive new edition of En Garde! remains faithful to the original game system that has delighted players for decades. It offers a complete framework for simulating the lives of gentleman adventurers in the Paris of the Three Musketeers and Cyrano de Bergerac. Players create characters who rise through the ranks of society, engage in duels, pursue romances, undertake missions for the King, and navigate the treacherous waters of politics and fashion. The hardcover binding makes it a durable companion for countless game sessions, while the clear, engaging writing ensures that both beginners and veterans can easily grasp the rules and spirit of the game.

Key Highlights

• Authentic Swashbuckling Setting: Immerse yourself in a meticulously researched 17th-century Paris, filled with historical flavour and literary references.
• Classic Role-Playing System: Enjoy a time-tested game mechanics that emphasize character development, social advancement, and thrilling combat.
• Comprehensive Rules: Everything you need to play is included—from character creation and duelling to social climbing and campaign management.
• Beautiful Hardcover Edition: A premium physical book built to last, perfect for your gaming library or coffee table.
• Faithful to the Original: This edition preserves the charm and depth of the original game while making it accessible to a new generation of players.

Inside the Book

The book is organized into clear, logical sections that guide players from character creation to advanced campaign play. You will find detailed rules for duelling, including various fencing styles, weapon types, and the all-important concept of élan. Social status, wealth, and reputation are tracked meticulously, allowing characters to rise from obscure cadets to influential nobles. The game also covers military service, patronage, love affairs, and the ever-present threat of scandal. Numerous tables, examples, and scenario ideas help game masters craft memorable adventures. The appendix includes sample characters, a glossary of terms, and a bibliography for further reading.

Key Topics

• Character Creation and Advancement: Build a unique gentleman adventurer with skills, attributes, and a personal history.
• Duelling and Combat: Master the art of the rapier, including parries, thrusts, and ripostes.
• Social Hierarchy and Politics: Navigate the complex world of courtiers, guardsmen, and cardinal’s agents.
• Military Campaigns and Missions: Lead troops, undertake secret missions, and earn glory for France.
• Romance and Intrigue: Manage love affairs, rivalries, and the delicate dance of honour and passion.

Reader Benefits

Reading and playing En Garde! offers numerous rewards. It sharpens strategic thinking as players plan their character’s rise in society. It encourages creative storytelling and collaborative narrative building. The game fosters social interaction, making it a wonderful activity for friends and family. For students of literature, it brings the world of Alexandre Dumas and Edmond Rostand to life in an interactive way. The hardcover edition is a collector’s item that will stand the test of time, providing endless entertainment. Indian readers, in particular, will appreciate the game’s emphasis on honour, loyalty, and wit—values that resonate across cultures.

Learning Outcomes

By engaging with this book, readers will develop a deeper understanding of 17th-century French society, history, and culture. They will learn the principles of tabletop role-playing, including character management, resource allocation, and risk assessment. Players will improve their decision-making skills, as every choice in the game has consequences. The game also teaches the importance of teamwork and diplomacy, as characters must often collaborate to achieve their goals. Finally, it inspires creativity, as players craft their own stories and adventures within the framework provided.

Who Should Read

This book is perfect for fans of swashbuckling tales, historical fiction, and classic literature. Role-playing game enthusiasts will find a rich, detailed system that offers a unique experience. History buffs will enjoy the authentic setting and period details. Students and teachers of literature can use it as a creative tool to explore the works of Dumas and Rostand. Anyone who loves adventure, duelling, and the romance of old Paris will be captivated. It is also an excellent gift for collectors of fine gaming books and for those new to tabletop role-playing who want a friendly, accessible entry point.

About the Author

Darryl Hany is a game designer and writer with a deep passion for historical role-playing and classic literature. He is best known for creating En Garde!, a game that has inspired countless players around the world. Hany’s work reflects a meticulous attention to historical detail and a love for the swashbuckling genre. He has contributed to the growth of tabletop gaming with his innovative systems and engaging narratives. This new edition is a testament to his enduring vision and the timeless appeal of the world he created.

About the Publisher

Margam Evans Limited is a respected independent publisher based in the United Kingdom, known for producing high-quality, niche publications in the fields of games, history, and literature. They are committed to preserving classic works and bringing them to new audiences in premium formats. This hardcover edition of En Garde! exemplifies their dedication to craftsmanship and content. Their catalogue includes a range of role-playing games and historical texts that appeal to discerning readers and collectors. Bookshops.in is proud to offer this title from such a distinguished publisher.

Conclusion

En Garde!: Being in the Main, a Game of the Life and Times of a Gentleman Adventurer and His Several Companions is more than a game—it is a portal to a world of honour, danger, and romance. With its faithful rules, immersive setting, and beautiful hardcover presentation, this book belongs on the shelf of every adventurer at heart. Whether you are plotting a duel, climbing the social ladder, or simply dreaming of Parisian rooftops, this volume will provide countless hours of enjoyment. Order your copy today from Bookshops.in and prepare to cry, 'En Garde!'