Battle Cry: 150th Civil War Anniversary Edition (2010) Board Game

Battle Cry: 150th Civil War Anniversary Edition is a board game that was released in 2010 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War. It is a reissue of the popular Battle Cry game, which was originally published in in 2010. The game is designed by Avalon Hill, Hasbro, and Wizards of the Coast, and it allows players to simulate the battles of the Civil War using miniatures and a modular game board.

Game Components of Battle Cry: 150th Civil War Anniversary Edition

Modular hex grid map representing various battlefield terrains

Plastic miniatures for infantry, cavalry, and artillery units

Command cards

Custom six-sided battle dice

Generals as separate game pieces

Flag stands for tracking victory points

Terrain hexes for setup

Reference cards

Rule book with 30 historical scenarios

How To Setup Battle Cry: 150th Civil War Anniversary Edition

To set up the game, players select a scenario from the rule book, each containing detailed setup instructions. The scenario listing includes the positions for each player’s army, historical overview, staffing notes, and special rules. Players place the terrain hexes on the game board, followed by the plastic miniatures, with the Union Army on the northern half and the Confederate Army on the southern half. Generals can be attached to units but cannot occupy a hex alone. The command card deck is shuffled, and each player is dealt their starting hand of cards. Finally, the battle dice and reference cards are placed near the game board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Command and Colors System: Uses command cards to dictate player actions, adding unpredictability and strategic depth.

Scenario-Based Gameplay: Includes 30 historical scenarios with unique victory conditions and setup.

Unit Movement: Infantry moves one hex and battles within four hexes; cavalry moves up to three hexes and battles adjacent hexes; artillery moves but cannot battle if moved, with a firing range of five hexes.

Combat Resolution: Custom six-sided dice determine hits, misses, retreats, and other effects.

Generals: Provide significant benefits when attached to units but cannot conduct combat themselves.

Game Objective: Achieve victory by completing specific objectives or eliminating the opponent’s units.

Player Experience

Battle Cry offers a blend of strategy, tactics, and historical flavor, making it engaging and accessible. The simplified rules ensure it is easy to learn and understand, suitable for casual gamers and families. The game captures the historical dynamics of the Civil War, including the importance of terrain and the role of different unit types. Each scenario provides a unique experience, allowing players to explore different battles and strategies.

Pros

Accessible Rules: Easy to learn and understand, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Historical Flavor: Captures the essence of Civil War battles without overly complex simulations.

Replayability: 30 scenarios offer numerous gameplay experiences.

Strategic Depth: Command cards add unpredictability and strategic elements.

Engaging Gameplay: Fast-paced and engaging for players.

Cons

Simplification: Some historical details are simplified, which might not appeal to hardcore wargamers.

Limited Unit Complexity: Units do not have detailed attributes beyond their type.

Personal Thoughts on Battle Cry: 150th Civil War Anniversary Edition

Battle Cry is ideal for those interested in historical wargaming but looking for a more accessible and family-friendly experience. It’s perfect for introducing players to the world of historical board games, offering a balanced mix of strategy and simplicity. The game is also a great choice for history enthusiasts who want to experience key battles of the American Civil War in a fun and engaging way.

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