Enemy in Sight (1988) Board Game

Enemy in Sight is a board game released in 1988 that focuses on naval combat during the Age of Sail. Designed by Charles Kibler and George I. Parrish, Jr., the game allows 2 to 8 players to engage in strategic battles on the high seas. With its focus on the American Revolutionary War, Napoleonic Wars, and other historical naval conflicts, Enemy in Sight offers players a chance to experience the challenges and thrills of naval warfare.

Game Components of Enemy in Sight

Two decks of cards: one featuring various sailing ships of the line (from 1st Rate to 6th Rate) and another consisting of action cards.

Each player is dealt a fleet of six ship cards and six action cards.

How To Setup Enemy in Sight

To set up the game, each player receives six ship cards and six action cards. The action deck is shuffled, and players draw cards to ensure they have the same number of action cards as ships.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Players draw action cards to match the number of ships they have. Red action cards must be played immediately and can negatively affect the player; these cards are passed to the next player if they cannot be resolved.

Game Objective: The first player to accumulate 100 points from sunk and captured ships wins. If the action deck is depleted before this, the player with the most points wins.

Player Experience

Enemy in Sight offers a unique blend of strategy and unpredictability, especially with its “walking disasters” mechanism where red action cards move from player to player until resolved. This feature adds a layer of social interaction and surprise.

Pros

Fast and Playable: Enjoyable for both casual players and wargaming enthusiasts.

Great with Large Groups: Particularly fun with a large number of players who enjoy strategic and sometimes churlish gameplay.

Simple to Learn: Despite some complexity, the basic rules are easy to grasp.

Cons

Complexity: The tactical considerations can slow down the game, making it less of a “beer & pretzels” experience.

Lengthy: The game can take up to 120 minutes to play, which may not be suitable for all players.

Personal Thoughts on Enemy in Sight

Enemy in Sight is a game that appeals to a wide range of players, from casual gamers to devoted wargamers. It’s ideal for those who enjoy naval warfare themes and the unpredictability of action cards. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking quick, simple games, given its potential for complexity and extended gameplay. If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy with social interaction and a bit of historical flair, Enemy in Sight could be an excellent choice.

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