Little Big Horn (1981) Board Game

Little Big Horn is a board game that was released in 1981 and is set during the American Indian Wars. The game allows players to reenact the famous battle of Little Bighorn, where General Custer and his troops were defeated by Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors.

Game Components of Little Big Horn

Map: Representing the battle area around the Little Bighorn River.

Units: Figures or tokens for US Cavalry and Native American warriors.

Terrain Effects: Horses move faster than foot units, and some units can perform ranged attacks.

Winning Spaces: Specific locations on the board that determine victory conditions.

How To Setup Little Big Horn

The setup involves placing the US Cavalry units at the southern edge of the map, while the Native American forces are set up in their respective camps along the Little Bighorn River. The game requires careful placement of units and non-combatant pieces. For the Native American player, the setup includes determining which tribes are present and where they are placed, with the cavalry player unaware of the exact distribution until they are within spotting distance.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective:

Cavalry: Eliminate all Native American riders or cross the Little Bighorn River and reach one of two winning spaces on the board.

Native Americans: Eliminate General Custer and his two officers.

Movement and Combat: Units move based on terrain and type (horses move faster than foot units). Combat involves ranged and close quarters interactions.

Non-Combatants: Capturing non-combatant units can significantly impact the game’s outcome, especially for the cavalry.

Player Experience

Playing Little Big Horn can be a complex and challenging experience, especially due to the variability in unit distribution and the unknown number of enemy forces. The game requires strategic planning and adaptability, as the cavalry must navigate through terrain to reach and engage the Native American forces. The Native American player must balance defense and offense, ensuring the safety of non-combatants while launching effective attacks against the cavalry.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game recreates the historical battle with attention to the strategic and tactical challenges faced by both sides.

Dynamic Gameplay: The game involves constant movement and fluid battle lines, making it engaging and unpredictable.

Strategic Depth: Players must make critical decisions about unit placement, movement, and combat.

Cons

Complex Rules: Some versions of the game, particularly the Command Post Games version, are criticized for having poorly formatted and unclear rules, which can make setup and gameplay confusing.

Variable Setup: The unknown distribution of forces can make the game unpredictable but also adds a layer of complexity that may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Little Big Horn

Little Big Horn is a game suited for fans of historical war games and those who enjoy strategic challenges. It is not for the casual gamer due to its complexity and the need for careful planning and execution. The game’s historical context and dynamic gameplay make it a compelling choice for those interested in military strategy and the history of the American West. However, the potential for confusing rules and setup may deter some players, so it is advisable to approach with patience and a willingness to learn the intricate mechanics.

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