Infidel: The Supremacy of Cavalry in the Crusader Era – 11th-12th Century (2011) Board Game

Infidel: The Supremacy of Cavalry in the Crusader Era – 11th-12th Century is a historical wargame that focuses on the importance of cavalry during the Crusader era. Designed by J. J. Dassy, Mike Lemick, Rodger B. MacGowan, and Mark Simonitch, this game allows players to engage in strategic battles that took place during this tumultuous period in history. With a hexagon grid and dice rolling mechanics, players must carefully plan their moves to secure victory on the battlefield.

Game Components of Infidel: The Supremacy of Cavalry in the Crusader Era – 11th-12th Century

Game board depicting the Crusader era battlefield

Scenario cards for various historical battles

Unit counters representing cavalry and infantry

Rulebook

Player aids and charts

How To Setup Infidel: The Supremacy of Cavalry in the Crusader Era – 11th-12th Century

To set up the game, players first select a scenario, which determines the specific units and setup for each side. The game board is then arranged according to the scenario instructions, with unit counters placed on their designated starting positions. Players also receive scenario-specific cards and any necessary player aids.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Continual Play: No traditional turns; players take actions continuously.

Unit Movement and Combat: Players move and engage units according to the scenario rules and unit capabilities.

Cavalry Supremacy: The game emphasizes the importance of cavalry in medieval battles.

Scenario-Based: Each scenario represents a historical battle from the Crusades era.

Objective: The objective varies by scenario but generally involves defeating the opposing force or achieving specific tactical goals.

Player Experience

Playing **Infidel** offers an immersive experience into the battles of the Crusades, with a focus on strategic unit deployment and tactical maneuvering. The game’s continual play mechanic keeps players engaged and active throughout, mimicking the fluid nature of medieval combat.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is set in a lesser-covered historical period, offering a unique perspective.

Easy to Learn: Short rules and simple mechanics make it accessible to new players.

Dynamic Scenarios: Multiple scenarios provide varied gameplay experiences.

Emphasis on Strategy: Players must think critically about unit placement and timing.

Cons

Limited Complexity: The game’s simplicity may not appeal to players seeking more complex strategies.

Dependence on Scenarios: The game’s replayability relies heavily on the quality and variety of scenarios.

Personal Thoughts on Infidel: The Supremacy of Cavalry in the Crusader Era – 11th-12th Century

**Infidel** is ideal for history buffs and fans of medieval warfare, particularly those interested in the Crusades. It is also a good choice for players new to wargaming or looking for a quick, engaging game that doesn’t require hours of setup and rules learning. However, experienced gamers seeking deep complexity and intricate strategies may find it less satisfying.

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