Altar of Freedom: Grand Tactical Battles in the American Civil War (2013) Board Game

Altar of Freedom: Grand Tactical Battles in the American Civil War is a board game released in 2013 by Iron Ivan Games. It is set during the American Civil War, allowing players to command armies and reenact historic battles from that time period. The game is designed for 2 players and has a runtime of approximately 240 minutes.

Game Components of Altar of Freedom: Grand Tactical Battles in the American Civil War

Rulebook: A 71-page PDF or formerly a 68-page soft cover print, containing rules, scenarios, and visual aids like period pictures, diagrams, and color photos of 6mm models.

Scenarios: Four starter scenarios included in the rulebook, with additional scenarios available on the author’s website and in supplements.

Models and Terrain: Players use 6mm scale miniatures, with guides and tutorials for creating battlefields, including free downloadable paper buildings.

How To Setup Altar of Freedom: Grand Tactical Battles in the American Civil War

Setting up *Altar of Freedom* involves preparing the battlefield with 6mm scale models and terrain, and selecting a scenario. Scenarios make up the backbone of the game, recreating historical battles rather than balanced fights. Each scenario outlines the specific forces, terrain, and objectives for the game. The rulebook provides detailed setup instructions and visual aids to help players create an accurate and visually pleasing battlefield.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Clock System: Players secretly bid for control of the Turn Clock, influencing the length of turns through a combination of chance and tactics.

Command Points (PPs): Generals provide PPs, which are used for maneuvers and controlling the Turn Clock. Generals have traits that affect gameplay.

Combat Mechanics: Simple combat resolution using a single d6 roll, with modifiers for terrain, flanking, unit traits, and status. Units become fatigued or broken rather than wounded.

Game Objective: The objective is to recreate and win historical battles, focusing on grand tactical strategies rather than balanced skirmishes.

Player Experience

Playing *Altar of Freedom* is an immersive and dynamic experience. The secret bidding system for the Turn Clock adds a layer of strategy and unpredictability, making players constantly adjust their tactical approach. The game requires players to manage command points, guess their opponent’s plans, and adapt to changing circumstances. The inclusion of general traits and historical scenarios adds a rich layer of character and authenticity to the game.

Pros

Innovative Turn Clock System: Allows for strategic bidding and control over the game’s pace.

Simple yet Effective Combat Mechanics: Easy to learn but with enough depth for strategy.

Historical Accuracy: Scenarios and rules are designed to recreate actual historical battles.

Visual Aids and Guides: Comprehensive guides and free resources for creating visually appealing battlefields.

Dynamic Gameplay: Constant need to adapt and strategize keeps the game engaging.

Cons

Record Keeping: Some players may find the record-keeping aspect cumbersome.

Availability: The printed version is currently out of print, with only the PDF version available.

Complexity: While the core concepts are simple, the game may require some time to fully grasp the nuances of the rules.

Personal Thoughts on Altar of Freedom: Grand Tactical Battles in the American Civil War

*Altar of Freedom* is ideal for wargamers interested in the American Civil War, especially those who enjoy grand tactical battles and historical accuracy. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate strategic depth and the challenge of adapting to dynamic game conditions. The game’s focus on historical scenarios and the innovative Turn Clock system make it a standout in the wargaming community. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a quick, balanced skirmish or who prefer physical rulebooks over PDFs.

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