Mrs Thatcher’s War: The Falklands, 1982 (2017) Board Game

Mrs Thatcher’s War: The Falklands, 1982 board game is a strategic wargame that simulates the conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands in in 2017. Players take on the role of either the British or Argentine forces and must use military tactics and diplomacy to secure victory in this intense and historically significant conflict.

Game Components of Mrs Thatcher’s War: The Falklands, 1982

Maps: Includes an 8.5″x11″ Strategic Map and an 11″x17″ East Falklands Map.

Counters: 88 thick counters that punch out neatly.

Rules: Illustrated with pictures taken by the designer during a tour of the Falkland Islands in 2015, and includes quotes from people involved in or observing the war.

Dice: Included only in the boxed format, not in the print-and-play (PnP) format.

How To Setup Mrs Thatcher’s War: The Falklands, 1982

Setting up the game involves organizing the maps, counters, and rules. The game requires a relatively small gaming footprint, which can even fit on a small 3″x3″ card table if necessary. Players need to arrange the maps, place the initial counters according to the setup instructions, and familiarize themselves with the rules and procedures outlined in the rulebook.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Phases:

Appreciate the Situation: Determine weather conditions and potential SAS raids.

Grupos Phase: Manage Argentine air assets and defensive measures.

Task Force Phase: Command British naval forces, including carriers and escorts, to defend against Argentine attacks, sink enemy ships, and support landings.

Argentine Air Assets Phase: Deploy Argentine aircraft using a simple placement mechanic.

Ground War Phase: Manage British ground troops, ensuring they secure key areas on East Falkland before the game ends on Turn 19.

Objective: The player must use naval and air power to deliver troops to East Falkland and execute a successful land campaign, replicating the British Task Force’s mission during the Falklands War.

Player Experience

Playing **Mrs Thatcher’s War** is an immersive experience that captures the strategic and logistical challenges of the Falklands War. The game offers a balance between procedural mechanics and player choice, making each playthrough unique and engaging. Players must navigate the complexities of weather, air superiority, naval battles, and ground warfare, all within the constraints of limited resources and a ticking clock. The game’s design ensures that the narrative of events feels plausible and believable, drawing players into the historical context of the conflict.

Pros

Historical Depth: Incorporates many historical elements, such as Exocet missiles, SAS raids, and diplomatic interventions.

Player Choice: Offers enough player decision-making to keep the game interesting despite its procedural nature.

Component Quality: The counters are described as “works of art”.

Challenging: The game presents a balanced and challenging experience, requiring strategic thinking and resource management.

Cons

Bias: The game has a clear British perspective, which might be seen as biased by some players.

Complexity: The game has medium difficulty and involves multiple phases and mechanics, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Solo Only: Designed exclusively for solo play, which may limit its appeal for players seeking multiplayer experiences.

Personal Thoughts on Mrs Thatcher’s War: The Falklands, 1982

**Mrs Thatcher’s War** is ideal for fans of solo wargames and those interested in the Falklands War. It is a game that appeals to players who enjoy strategic challenges, historical themes, and the intricacies of military operations. While it may not be neutral in its portrayal, it provides a engaging and thought-provoking experience that highlights the complexities and pressures of the conflict. This game is not for those seeking a quick, light-hearted experience but is perfect for those willing to dive deep into a historically rich and strategically demanding game.

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