Fortress America (1986) Board Game

Fortress America is a board game released in 1986 by Milton Bradley. It is a science fiction wargame set in an alternate future where the United States is under attack by a coalition of invading forces. The game has players taking on the roles of either the American defenders or the invading forces, each with their own unique abilities and strategies.

Game Components of Fortress America

Game board featuring a map of the United States

Three sets of invasion force pieces (Asian, Central American, and Euro-Soviet)

U.S. military and partisan units

Laser relay towers

Reinforcement cards for the U.S. player

Event cards for the invading forces (introduced in the 2012 Fantasy Flight Games version)

Rulebook

How To Setup Fortress America

To set up Fortress America, each player selects their role: one player controls the U.S. forces, while up to three other players control the invading forces. The game board is laid out, and each invading force places their initial units in their designated invasion zones. The U.S. player sets up their starting military units and laser relay towers. The U.S. player also receives an initial set of reinforcement cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Cooperative Play: Three players team up against one U.S. player.

Laser Relay Towers: These towers have a 60% chance to destroy an enemy unit anywhere on the board each turn.

Reinforcement System: Invaders receive reinforcements on an even basis over the first few turns, while the U.S. player draws two cards per turn, which can specify new units, partisans, or unit reconstruction.

Combat Rules: Favor the defender, with invaders needing to capture and hold cities.

Game Objective

Invaders: Capture and hold 18 or more cities until the end of an entire turn.

U.S. Player: Defend the cities and prevent the invaders from achieving their objective.

Player Experience

Playing Fortress America is a dynamic and challenging experience. The U.S. player faces a 3:1 military strength disadvantage but is reinforced by powerful laser relay towers and continuous card draws. The invaders must coordinate their efforts effectively to overcome the U.S. defenses. The game is designed to be closely contested, with the balance of power shifting as the game progresses.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Encourages complex strategic planning and coordination.

Dynamic Gameplay: The laser relay towers and reinforcement system add unpredictability and excitement.

Historical Context: Offers a unique Cold War-era hypothetical scenario.

Cooperative Play: Promotes teamwork among the invading forces.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the intricate rules and mechanics.

Length: The game can take up to 180 minutes to play.

Balance: Requires all players to play well for a balanced game, which can be challenging.

Personal Thoughts on Fortress America

Fortress America is ideal for fans of strategic board games and wargames, particularly those interested in Cold War-era scenarios. It requires a significant time commitment and a willingness to learn and adapt to its complex mechanics. The game is best suited for experienced players who enjoy cooperative play and the challenge of asymmetric warfare.

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