Corteo (1979) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Corteo is a board game that was released in 1979 by I Libri del No and Mondadori Giochi. It falls under the categories of Modern Warfare, Political, and Wargame, making it a strategic and immersive gaming experience. Designed for 2 to 8 players, Corteo requires a minimum of 2 players to start the game. With a runtime of around 120 minutes, this game is suitable for players aged 12 and above.

Game Components of Corteo

Game board: A map of an abstract Italian city, primarily modeled after Rome but including elements from other cities like Turin and Milan, overlaid with a hexagonal grid.

Pieces: Cardboard tokens of different colors with acronyms, symbols, and stylized designs identifying various units, along with movement and combat values.

Tables: A Results Table for combat outcomes, similar to those in SPI and Avalon Hill games.

Units: Tokens representing groups of 100 to 500 protesters and squads/platoons of 10 to 50 law enforcement officers.

How To Setup Corteo

To set up Corteo, players first place the game board, which features a city map divided into hexagonal spaces. Each player selects their units – either the protesters or the law enforcement – and places them on designated starting positions on the board. The game includes both basic and advanced rules, allowing for different levels of complexity. The basic setup involves determining the initial positions and objectives for each side, while the advanced setup includes additional variants for a more varied experience.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement and Combat: Players take turns moving their units and engaging in combat. Each turn consists of movement, potential combat, and the possibility of advancing post-combat.

Control Zones: The concept of Control Zones is key, similar to other hex-and-counter wargames.

Victory Points:

Law Enforcement: Earn points by arresting protesters.

Protesters: Achieve victory by maintaining a unit in a specific objective hex for a full turn without being attacked by law enforcement.

Asymmetric Gameplay: Law enforcement aims to control urban space, while protesters focus on hitting targets and retreating.

Player Experience

Playing Corteo offers a unique blend of strategy and historical reflection. The game is designed to simulate the tense and often violent confrontations between protesters and law enforcement during Italy’s late 1970s political unrest. Players must manage their units carefully, considering the effects of terrain and the specific goals of their side. The game’s mechanics, such as the Results Table for combat, add a layer of complexity and realism.

Pros

Historical Significance: Provides a unique perspective on a significant period in Italian history.

Strategic Depth: Combines movement and combat with strategic planning.

Asymmetric Gameplay: Offers different challenges and strategies for each side.

Replayability: Includes basic and advanced rules, as well as variants for different experiences.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players, especially with the advanced rules.

Limited Audience: May appeal more to those interested in historical simulations and wargames rather than casual board game players.

Outdated Mechanics: Some players might find the hex-and-counter system outdated compared to modern board game mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Corteo

Corteo is a game that will resonate most with players who are interested in historical simulations, particularly those familiar with the political climate of late 1970s Italy. It offers a nuanced and strategic gameplay experience that is both a reflection on history and a challenging wargame. While it may not be the best fit for casual players due to its complexity, it is a valuable addition to any collection focused on historical or political board games.

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