878 Vikings: Invasions of England (2017) Board Game

878 Vikings: Invasions of England is a historical board game that simulates the Viking invasions of England during the late 9th century. Players take on the roles of either the invading Viking forces or the defending Anglo-Saxons, each with unique abilities and strategies. The game is set during a pivotal time in English history when the Vikings sought to establish control over the British Isles.

Game Components of 878 Vikings: Invasions of England

Mapboard: Represents areas of England invaded by the Vikings in the 9th century.

Miniatures: Unique models for Viking freemen, Berserkers, King’s Housecarls, Thegn noblemen, and the Fyrd (peasant militia units).

Combat Dice: Specific dice for each faction and the Fyrd, determining hits, flees, and command decisions.

Faction Decks: Contain Event cards, Movement cards, and one Truce card for each faction.

Leader Cards: Represent Viking leaders who bring reinforcements and mobility to the invading armies.

How To Setup 878 Vikings: Invasions of England

To set up the game, players start by placing the mapboard, which represents England. The English players set up their Housecarls and Thegn noblemen across the map, initially controlling the entire territory. The Viking players prepare their forces, ready to invade from the sea. Each faction receives its respective deck of cards and miniatures. The game is quick to set up, making it easy to dive into the action.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Control: Players compete to control cities and territories.

Cooperative Play: Players on each side work together to coordinate strategies.

Card Play: Movement cards for troop maneuvering and Event cards for historical events and special actions.

Combat Resolution: Using combat dice to determine outcomes of battles.

Leaders and Reinforcements: Viking leaders bring significant reinforcements and mobility.

Game End: The game ends when both factions of a side have played their Truce cards, with the team controlling the most cities winning.

Player Experience

In 878 Vikings: Invasions of England, players are immersed in the historical conflict between the invading Vikings and the defending English nobles. The game requires strategic coordination between teammates, as players must manage their card decks, move troops effectively, and engage in battles. The addition of Viking leaders and historical events adds a layer of depth and variability to the game, making each playthrough unique and engaging.

Pros

Historical Flavor: The game is rich in historical detail and theme.

Unique Mechanics: Combines area control with cooperative play and card management.

Beautiful Components: High-quality miniatures and a detailed mapboard.

Replayability: Variable setup and event cards ensure multiple playthroughs are different.

Cons

Complexity: While the base mechanics are simple, the game can become complex with the addition of leaders and events.

Team Dynamics: Requires good coordination between teammates, which can be challenging.

Setup Time: While quick, setting up the miniatures and cards can still take some time.

Personal Thoughts on 878 Vikings: Invasions of England

878 Vikings: Invasions of England is perfect for fans of historical and strategic games who enjoy cooperative play and area control mechanics. It is particularly suited for those interested in the Vikings and the medieval period, offering a blend of strategy and historical authenticity. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a highly competitive, individual-based game or those new to complex board games. For experienced gamers and history enthusiasts, this game is a gem that combines smart mechanics with a compelling theme.

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