The Battle Games - Battlekin - Alador
One of the most exciting things you can see in the San Sabastion Colosseum is a game of Battlekin. These games started generations ago with teams simulating famous battles using wooden weapons. As the game evolved, and people started betting on the results – the idea of historical reenactment gave way to sport.
As a sport, the Battlekin became the most popular event. There are currently two versions – the Aladore Star League, and the Open League. The Aladore Star league is the professional version. Teams are often sponsored by business or rich families and wear brightly colored matching uniforms. Although not intended to be a rough sport, Battlekin does become dangerous – especially when there are two rivals competing against each other. It has become common for players to be injured, even to the point of being ‘taken out’ of the games. The Battlekin games are hard to play with a shattered elbow. Less common is the death of a player. It is seen as a sign of cunning and honor to ‘take a player out’ – but if that player dies it is seen as a dishonor. The balance is grim.
The three approved weapons are the sword, staff, and throwing ball. The only building materials you can use are wood and rope. A well balanced wooden Battle Sword with a rope grip can sell for as much as the steel version would.
Armor is essential. Again, the only building components allowed are wood and rope. Shields built in this method are also acceptable.
All weapons and armor must have the embossed logo of one of the approved craftsman on them. This guarantees the materials used have been approved by the league.
Depending on the specific Battlekin game and season, players may be allowed to bring only specific weapons onto the field. Or they may be allowed a specific number of weapons per player. Teams are often noted by what weapons and strategies they are best at using.
The Open League is the ‘volunteer’ division. In the winter after harvest, the only Battlekin games played for six weeks are Open League. Anyone can form a team. There are two versions, 4 man and 10 man teams. Some people save up all year to buy approved weapons and armor, in the hopes of being drafted into the Aladore Star League by one of the paid teams.
There are also ‘unsanctioned’ games played in the fields outside the city. These non-league games are part practice and part chaos, often resulting in severe injuries. Ale is often the deciding factor between a practice event and a dangerous one.
Children can often be seen playing Battlekin in the streets with their own homemade devices.
If you have ever traveled to Aladore, chances are you have a favorite Battlekin Team.
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