Brigade Fire and Fury: Wargaming the Civil War with Miniatures (1990) Board Game

Brigade Fire and Fury is a wargame that simulates battles from the American Civil War using miniature soldiers and terrain. It was first released in 1990 and has since gained a following among historical wargaming enthusiasts. The game is designed by Rich Hasenauer and features detailed rules for infantry, cavalry, and artillery combat.

Game Components of Brigade Fire and Fury: Wargaming the Civil War with Miniatures

Rulebook: A comprehensive guide, initially 96 pages in the first edition, now updated in the second edition published in 2010.

Miniatures: 15 mm figures representing brigades, including infantry, cavalry, and artillery units.

Map: Uses a scale of one inch to 45 or 60 yards.

Dice: Ten-sided dice to introduce randomness and simulate the fog of war.

Status Markers: Modelled markers to indicate unit conditions such as disordered, low on ammunition, etc.

Scenario Books: Additional books like the *Great Western Battles Scenario Book* and scenarios included in the second edition.

How To Setup Brigade Fire and Fury: Wargaming the Civil War with Miniatures

To set up the game, players need to prepare the battlefield by laying out the map, deploying their miniatures according to the chosen scenario, and ensuring each unit has the necessary status markers. The game requires careful planning and historical accuracy in setting up the initial positions of the units, reflecting the actual formations and deployments of the Civil War battles. Players must also determine the experience and morale levels of their units, which will affect gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Unit Scale: 15 mm miniatures representing brigades.

Map Scale: One inch to 45 or 60 yards.

Time Scale: 20–30 minutes of real time per complete turn.

Randomness: Ten-sided dice introduce randomness to simulate the fog of war.

Movement and Morale: Random elements based on unit experience and casualty-induced battle fatigue.

Combat Resolution: Firing tables that differentiate between various types of weaponry.

Game Objective: To defeat the opposing army by causing significant casualties or achieving specific battle objectives.

Player Experience

Playing **Brigade Fire and Fury** offers a deeply immersive experience, particularly for historical wargaming enthusiasts. The game’s mechanics closely simulate the complexities and uncertainties of Civil War battles, making it both challenging and rewarding. Players need to manage their units’ morale, ammo, and movement carefully, adding a layer of strategic depth that enhances the historical flavor of the game.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Detailed rules and scenarios that reflect actual Civil War battles.

Strategic Depth: Complex mechanics for movement, morale, and combat.

Visual Appeal: Full-color illustrations and photographs in the second edition.

Community: Part of a well-established and respected community in historical miniatures wargaming.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be overwhelming for new players due to detailed rules and tables.

Time Commitment: Setup and gameplay can be time-consuming.

Cost: Requires investment in miniatures and terrain.

Personal Thoughts on Brigade Fire and Fury: Wargaming the Civil War with Miniatures

**Brigade Fire and Fury** is ideal for wargaming enthusiasts who have a strong interest in the American Civil War and historical miniatures. It offers a unique blend of historical accuracy and engaging gameplay, making it a top choice for those looking to simulate the epic battles of the Civil War. While it may be challenging for new players, the game’s depth and complexity make it highly rewarding for those willing to invest the time and effort.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.