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The Battle of the Little Bighorn (2005) Board Game

ByMichail

The Battle of the Little Bighorn, also known as Custer’s Last Stand, was a famous battle between the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes against the United States Army in in 2005. The game is a tabletop wargame that simulates this historic battle and allows players to take on the roles of either the Native American tribes or the US Army.

Game Components of The Battle of the Little Bighorn

  • Map: 32″ x 17″
  • Scenario / Setup**
  • Measuring scale card**
  • Hardwood blocks with custom stickers: Representing companies and battalion headquarters for the cavalry, and small groups of warriors for the Sioux.
  • Noncombatants (NC) units: Critical units representing elders, women, and children.
  • Tribal markers: For the seven camps of the Sioux tribes.

    How To Setup The Battle of the Little Bighorn

    Setup involves determining the forces each side will bring to the battle. The Sioux player decides how many of the seven tribes will be present and where, placing tribal markers on the map. The cavalry player does not know which markers are real until their units are within spotting distance. The cavalry enters from the south (upstream) edge of the map, while the Sioux must exit their noncombatants through two exit points on the northern (downstream) edge.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Variable Force Composition: Players can choose the forces they bring to the battle.
  • Fluid Movement: Movement regulated by a combination of distance and terrain using measuring sticks.
  • Blind Battle: Players fight against unknown forces, similar to historical conditions.
  • Game Objective: Capture Noncombatants (NC) units for the cavalry to win, or defend and escape NCs for the Sioux to win.
  • Victory Conditions: Vary based on the forces brought to the battle.

    Player Experience

    The game offers a highly dynamic and fluid battle experience, avoiding traditional static battle lines. Players must be strategic and adaptable, as the battle can quickly turn in favor of either side. The cavalry must drive hard to capture NCs before the Sioux can organize and launch counterattacks. The Sioux, meanwhile, must defend their noncombatants and use their numerical superiority to encircle and overwhelm the cavalry.

    Pros

  • Dynamic Gameplay: Constant movement and changing battle lines.
  • Historical Accuracy: Reflects the uncertainty and surprise of the actual battle.
  • Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and adaptability.
  • Simple yet Effective Mechanics: Easy to learn but challenging to master.

    Cons

  • Some Assembly Required: Players need to assemble the hardwood blocks and stickers.
  • Measuring Sticks: Must be ordered separately or made using the game rules.
  • Complexity for New Players: May be overwhelming for those new to block wargaming.

    Personal Thoughts on The Battle of the Little Bighorn

    This game is ideal for fans of historical wargames and those who appreciate the strategic challenges of battles with uncertain outcomes. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy dynamic and fluid gameplay, and are willing to invest time in understanding the unique mechanics. While it may pose a learning curve for new players, the game offers a deeply immersive and historically rich experience that rewards strategic thinking and adaptability.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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