Battle Above the Clouds (2010) Board Game

Battle Above the Clouds is a wargame set in the American Civil War, specifically focusing on the Battle of Lookout Mountain. Designed by Nicolás Eskubi, Charles Kibler, and featuring artwork by Mort Künstler, this game was released in 2010 by Multi-Man Publishing. The game allows for 1-2 players to engage in strategic warfare on a hexagon grid battlefield.

Game Components of Battle Above the Clouds

Game Board: A map representing the battlefield.

Unit Counters: Tokens for different military units.

Rulebook: Detailed instructions for gameplay.

Scenario Book: Guides for various historical scenarios.

Player Aids: Charts and tables to assist players.

Dice: For resolving combat and other random events.

How To Setup Battle Above the Clouds

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, deploying unit counters according to the chosen scenario, and distributing player aids. Players must also read through the scenario brief to understand the specific objectives and any unique rules for that scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hex-and-Counter System: Units move and fight on a hexagonal grid.

Turn-Based: Players take turns in a sequence of phases.

Command and Control: Players manage their units based on historical command structures.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved using dice rolls and unit strengths.

Objectives: Players aim to capture key terrain, eliminate enemy units, or achieve specific historical objectives.

Player Experience

**Battle Above the Clouds** offers a deep and immersive experience for wargamers, particularly those interested in the American Civil War. The game demands strategic thinking, tactical maneuvering, and a solid understanding of historical warfare. Players must balance resource management, unit deployment, and adapt to changing battlefield conditions.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched to reflect real historical battles.

Depth of Strategy: Offers complex and engaging gameplay.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable setup ensure many different playthroughs.

Educational Value: Players learn about the American Civil War and its military tactics.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s complexity can be daunting for new players.

Long Playtime: Games can take several hours to complete.

Cost: The game can be expensive, depending on the source.

Personal Thoughts on Battle Above the Clouds

**Battle Above the Clouds** is ideal for experienced wargamers and history buffs who are looking for a challenging and historically rich gaming experience. It is not recommended for casual gamers due to its complexity and lengthy playtime. However, for those willing to invest the time, it offers a highly rewarding and detailed look into the American Civil War.

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