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Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861 (2017) Board Game

ByMichail

Brief History and Background Information for Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861 is a historical wargame that focuses on the Battle of Belmont during the American Civil War. This battle marked an early engagement for Ulysses S. Grant and provided him with valuable experience that would shape his future military career. The game allows players to step into the shoes of Grant and Confederate General Gideon Pillow as they face off in a strategic and tactical battle.

Game Components of Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

  • Game board with a hexagon grid
  • Counters representing units and leaders
  • Dice for combat resolution
  • Rulebook

How To Setup Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

  • Place the game board on a flat surface.
  • Each player chooses a side (Union or Confederate) and sets up their units and leaders according to the scenario instructions.
  • Place the chit-pull cup within easy reach of both players.
  • Determine who will take the first turn.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns activating units and conducting combat operations using a chit-pull system. The objective is to achieve strategic and tactical goals as outlined in the scenario instructions. Victory is determined by achieving these goals, such as capturing key objectives or eliminating enemy units.

Player Experience

Pros:

  • Detailed historical accuracy in terms of units, leaders, and terrain
  • Challenging gameplay that requires strategic thinking and planning
  • Immersive experience that puts players in the shoes of Civil War commanders

Cons:

  • Steep learning curve for new players
  • Long playtime may not be suitable for casual gamers
  • Limited replayability due to specific scenario objectives

Personal Thoughts on Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861 offers a deep dive into the historical context of the American Civil War, providing players with a challenging and immersive experience. The build quality of the components is top-notch, and the game is worth the investment for history buffs and wargaming enthusiasts.

However, the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity and long playtime. Those who enjoy detailed strategy games and are willing to invest the time to learn the rules will find Belmont to be a rewarding experience. Overall, I would recommend this game to fans of historical wargames and players looking for a deep and engaging gameplay experience.

Game Components of Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

  • Map Board: The map covers an area roughly 2.5 by 3.5 miles, with each hex representing about 800 yards.
  • Unit Counters: The game includes counters for Union and Confederate troops, with the Union starting with 3,000 men and the Confederates starting with one regiment but reinforcing up to 5,000 men.
  • Gunboat Units: Representing the naval aspect of the battle, gunboats are included to support troop operations.
  • Chit Draw System: Used for randomizing regimental movements and engagements.
  • Rulebook: Detailed rules for setup, gameplay, and historical context.

    How To Setup Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

    Setup involves placing the initial Union force of 3,000 men on the board, while the Confederates start with a single regiment. The map is divided into hexes, each covering about 800 yards. Players must also set up the gunboats along the Mississippi River. The game includes a chit draw system to randomize regimental movements, adding a layer of unpredictability to the setup and gameplay.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Chit Draw System: Randomizes when regiments move and engage in combat.
  • Leadership Mechanics: Grant’s aggressive nature is simulated through “Grant’s Influence,” which helps maintain historical accuracy by ensuring the Union troops press their advantage despite numerical superiority issues.
  • Naval Support: Gunboats provide support to troops, reflecting Grant’s early experiments with army-navy coordination.
  • Discipline and Morale: Mechanisms to simulate the lack of discipline and the adrenaline-fueled advances of troops, which could lead to uncontrolled attacks.
  • Game Objective: The Union must capture the Confederate camp before the game ends, while the Confederates aim to defend their position and prevent the Union from achieving their objective.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command** offers a complex and engaging experience, particularly for fans of historical wargames. The game captures the nuances of the American Civil War, including the challenges of coordinating land and naval forces, the impact of leadership, and the unpredictability of troop behavior in battle. The game is nine turns long, with each turn representing about one hour, making it a relatively short but intense experience.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously designed to reflect the historical events of the Battle of Belmont.
  • Complex Mechanics: Incorporates various mechanics such as leadership, naval support, and troop morale, making the game rich in strategy.
  • Dynamic Gameplay: The chit draw system and leadership mechanics ensure each game is unique.
  • Educational Value: Provides insight into Grant’s early command and the strategic challenges of the American Civil War.

    Cons

  • Complexity: The game may be overwhelming for new players due to its intricate mechanics.
  • Imbalance: The game starts with a significant Union force but gradually sees Confederate reinforcements, which can make the game feel lopsided.
  • Limited Troop Representation: Not all available Confederate troops are represented in the game, which could be seen as a simplification.

    Personal Thoughts on Belmont: Grant’s Baptism of Command, November 7th, 1861

    This game is ideal for historical wargaming enthusiasts and those interested in the American Civil War. It offers a deep dive into the strategic and tactical challenges faced by Grant in his early command, making it both educational and engaging. However, new players may find the complexity and specific historical context challenging to navigate. Overall, it is a well-designed game that brings a pivotal moment in history to life.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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