Central America (1987) Board Game

Central America is a board game released in 1987, designed by Rosaria Baldari, Ted Koller, and James Talbot, and published by Victory Games. It falls under the categories of Civil War, Modern Warfare, and Wargame. The game is set in the context of a civil war in Central America, where players take on the roles of different factions vying for control of the region.

Game Components of Central America

Map: A 22″ x 32″ map of Central America, described as legible, succinct, and functional.

Counters: 780 counters representing various units and elements of the conflict.

Rule Books: Detailed rule books with text-based and graphical examples.

Scenarios: Seven campaign scenarios, including historical and hypothetical situations.

How To Setup Central America

Setting up **Central America** involves preparing the map, distributing the counters according to the chosen scenario, and familiarizing players with the extensive rules. The game is designed for two players, although team play is also an option. Each scenario has specific setup instructions detailed in the rule books.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Operational level war board game.

Mechanics: Combat resolution, resource management, and strategic planning.

Objective: The **Communist** player aims to spread communist influence and control in Central America, while the **Allied** player seeks to maintain U.S.-allied governments and stability in the region.

Scenarios: Include historical events like the 1979 Revolution and hypothetical scenarios such as a major attack against the Sandinistas or an invasion of Honduras and El Salvador.

Game Length: Approximately 360 minutes.

Player Experience

Playing **Central America** is a complex and engaging experience. The game is well-suited for team play and caters to hard-core gamers with its deep scenarios and extensive rules. Players must manage large numbers of units and navigate intricate rules, making it a challenging but rewarding experience. The game’s scenarios, such as “Operation Big Pine” and “World War III,” offer long-term engagements that test strategic skills.

Pros

Deep Scenarios: Offers a variety of historical and hypothetical scenarios that cater to different play styles.

Complex Strategy: Challenges players with intricate rules and strategic planning.

Realistic Simulation: Provides a reasonable simulation of air combat and ground operations in the Central American context.

Awards: Won the 1987 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Modern Era Board Game.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game comes with thick rule books that can be daunting for new players.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can last up to 360 minutes, which may not appeal to all players.

Component Management: Managing 780 counters can be cumbersome.

Personal Thoughts on Central America

**Central America** is for the dedicated and experienced wargamer who enjoys complex, operational-level simulations. It is not a game for casual players due to its high complexity and lengthy gameplay. However, for those who immerse themselves in the detailed scenarios and rules, it offers a deeply engaging and strategic experience that simulates the intricacies of conflict in Central America during the Cold War era.

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