Central America (1987) – Board Game Guys

Central America is a board wargame published by Victory Games, a subsidiary of Avalon Hill, in 1987. It was designed by James McQuaid and developed by Mark Herman, and it won the 1987 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Modern Era Board Game. The game is a comprehensive, dynamic simulation that encapsulates the multiple elements of modern land and air combat.

Game Components of Central America

Map: A 22″ x 32″ hexagon grid map of Central America.

Counters: 780 counters representing various military units, including ground, air, and naval forces.

Rule Books: Detailed rule books with helpful examples and graphical descriptions.

Players: Designed for 2 players, with options for team-play.

How To Setup Central America

Setting up **Central America** involves placing the map board, distributing the counters according to the chosen scenario, and reviewing the specific rules and objectives for that scenario. The game includes seven campaign scenarios, each with its own setup instructions. Players need to ensure all units are correctly positioned on the map and that each player has the necessary resources and information to begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat and other actions.

Grid Movement: Units move on a hexagon grid map.

Movement Points: Units have limited movement points per turn.

Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game: The game includes multiple scenarios and campaign modes.

Simulation: Aims to simulate real-world military conflicts and strategies.

The objective varies by scenario but generally involves the **Communist** player (controlling Nicaraguan and allied forces) and the **Allied** player (controlling U.S.-allied forces) competing for control and influence in Central America. The game tracks victory points, with penalties for losing key units and objectives.

Player Experience

Playing **Central America** is a complex and engaging experience, particularly for those interested in military strategy and historical conflicts. The game is known for its detailed rules and extensive setup, which can be daunting for new players. However, the scenarios are well-designed, offering a mix of historical accuracy and hypothetical situations that keep the game fresh and challenging. The inclusion of air, ground, and naval units adds depth to the gameplay, requiring players to balance different types of forces and strategies.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game provides a detailed simulation of historical and hypothetical conflicts in Central America.

Deep Strategy: With multiple units and scenarios, the game offers a high level of strategic depth.

Awards: Won the 1987 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Modern Era Board Game.

Engaging Scenarios: Seven campaign scenarios provide a variety of challenges and scenarios to play through.

Cons

Complex Setup: The game has thick rule books and a large number of counters, making setup time-consuming.

Long Playtime: Games can last from 20 to 45 turns, translating to several hours of playtime.

Limited Appeal: The game’s complexity and focus on military strategy may limit its appeal to casual gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Central America

**Central America** is ideal for experienced wargamers and those with a strong interest in military history and strategy. While it may not be as approachable for new players due to its complexity, the game offers a rich and immersive experience for those willing to invest the time and effort. It’s a great choice for gamers who enjoy detailed simulations and are looking for a challenging, strategic game that mirrors real-world conflicts. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those seeking a quick, light-hearted gaming experience.

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