The purpose of the SPQR Companion was to provide links to information about ancient Rome useful for the posts-in-character and role-playing that grew up around the chapters. My emphasis, in keeping with my personna as a Roman matrona, was on everyday domestic and family life. I also provided links to other players' pages, including those with game spoilers.

The Pitch:

The chapters of the game SPQR, a mystery set in third century Rome, had as their main attraction the exquisite reconstruction of the Roman Forum. You move around the city goggling at the sights and reading messages (the "scrolls") that enable you to solve each chapter's puzzle or challenge and move on to the next.

Twelve on-line chapters were originally promised; what we got were four, a twelve chapter (purchasable) CD-ROM, and a follow-up text adventure. Changing technology and Ancient Sites personnel resulted in each chapter's having a slightly different flavor and features.

The CyberGods have also provided us with Help. I have some site history at my Sack of Rome page.

One piece of advice that I offer is: Ignore the timing. The game was not originally designed as a race, and speeding through it will not increase your enjoyment of its attractions.

Visit the SPQR Companion for all things Roman (including spoiler links).