Brief Border Wars (2020) Board Game

Brief Border Wars is a two-player board game that simulates conflicts in the modern world. Designed by Mark Mahaffey and published by Compass Games in 2020, the game focuses on modern warfare scenarios and is perfect for fans of wargames.

Game Components of Brief Border Wars

Game Box: Contains four mini-games.

Conflicts Included:
– El Salvador vs. Honduras, 1969
– Turkish invasion of Cyprus, 1974
– China vs. Vietnam, 1979
– Israel vs. Hezbollah, southern Lebanon, 2006

Cards: 54-card deck with each card having two values for movement and combat.

Special Action Cards: 6 cards per side.

Random Events: 2 cards per game.

Units: 25 or fewer units per side.

Rulebook: Written in English.

Artwork: By Mark Mahaffey.

How To Setup Brief Border Wars

Setting up Brief Border Wars involves preparing the four different conflict scenarios. Each scenario has its unique setup, reflecting the historical context of the conflict. Players need to:

Choose the conflict they want to play.

Set up the board according to the specific conflict’s rules.

Shuffle and deal the 54-card deck, ensuring each player gets 20 cards plus 6 Special Action Cards.

Determine starting units and their positions on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card-Driven System: Cards determine movement and combat values.

Area Movement: Units move across the board based on card values.

Dice Rolling: Not the primary mechanic, but may be used in some specific rules.

Variable Set-up: Each conflict has its own setup and rules.

Campaign / Battle Card Driven: Cards drive the action and resolution of conflicts.

Movement Points: Cards determine how many units can be moved.

Simulation: The game simulates the chaotic and unpredictable nature of border conflicts.

Game Objective: The objective varies by scenario but generally involves achieving specific military or diplomatic goals.

Player Experience

Playing Brief Border Wars is an immersive experience that delves into the complexities and unpredictabilities of short border wars. Players must manage the chaos of randomly drawn cards, which can significantly impact the outcome of the game. The game requires strategic thinking and adaptability, as players need to adjust their plans based on the cards they draw. Each scenario offers a unique historical context, making the game both educational and engaging.

Pros

Historical Depth: Covers four distinct historical conflicts.

Replayability: Random card draws and special rules ensure high replayability.

Educational: Provides insight into lesser-known border conflicts.

Strategic Challenge: Requires players to think strategically and adapt quickly.

Compact Playtime: Games are playable in about 1-2 hours.

Cons

Complexity: While the complexity rating is 2.6 out of 5, some players may find the card system and multiple scenarios overwhelming.

Luck Factor: The random draw of cards can lead to frustration if luck is not on the player’s side.

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players only.

Personal Thoughts on Brief Border Wars

Brief Border Wars is ideal for those interested in modern warfare and wargames, particularly those who enjoy card-driven mechanics and historical scenarios. It is a great fit for players who appreciate strategic challenges and are willing to adapt to the unpredictability of the game. However, it may not be the best choice for players who prefer games with less luck involved or those looking for a game that supports a larger player count. For history buffs and fans of tactical gameplay, Brief Border Wars offers a unique and engaging experience.

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