Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition): The English Civil Wars 1640-1653 (2023) Board Game

Brief History and Background Information for Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition): The English Civil Wars 1640-1653

The English Civil Wars were a series of armed conflicts and political machinations between Parliamentarians (“Roundheads”) and Royalists (“Cavaliers”) in the Kingdom of England over issues of governance and religious freedom. The wars took place between 1642 and 1651, resulting in the execution of King Charles I, the establishment of the Commonwealth of England under Oliver Cromwell, and eventually the restoration of the monarchy with Charles II.

Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition) is a board game that allows players to experience the complexities and challenges faced by the various factions during this turbulent period in English history. Designed by Sean Cooke and featuring detailed artwork by Worthington Publishing, LLC, the game offers a deep and immersive gaming experience.

Game Components of Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition): The English Civil Wars 1640-1653

• Rulebook
• Game board
• Player aid cards
• Wooden cubes and markers
• Event cards
• Battle cards
• Dice

How To Setup Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition): The English Civil Wars 1640-1653

• Place the game board in the center of the table.
• Separate and shuffle the event cards and battle cards.
• Each player chooses a faction to play as (Parliamentarian or Royalist).
• Place the faction markers on the appropriate spaces on the board.
• Follow the setup instructions in the rulebook for specific details.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition) is a card-driven wargame that utilizes action points, dice rolling, events, and hand management mechanics. Players must navigate the political and military challenges of the English Civil Wars, making strategic decisions to achieve their faction’s goals.

The objective of the game is to either maintain control of the country as the Parliamentarians or restore the monarchy as the Royalists. Players must manage their resources, plan campaigns, and respond to unexpected events to secure victory.

Player Experience

Pros:

• Deep and immersive gameplay that captures the complexity of the English Civil Wars.
• Strategic decision-making and resource management provide a challenging experience.
• High-quality components and artwork enhance the overall presentation of the game.
• Solo play mode allows for a satisfying gaming experience even without opponents.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve may be intimidating for new players.
• Random events and dice rolling can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
• Limited replayability once familiar with the strategies and events in the game.

Personal Thoughts on Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition): The English Civil Wars 1640-1653

In my opinion, Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition) offers a rich and engaging experience for history enthusiasts and strategy gamers alike. The attention to detail in the game’s components and mechanics reflects the designer’s dedication to recreating the complexities of the English Civil Wars.

While the learning curve may be steep, the depth of gameplay and historical accuracy make it a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time and effort. The game’s thematic focus on political intrigue, religious conflict, and military tactics adds layers of complexity that keep players engaged throughout.

Overall, I believe Cruel Necessity (Deluxe Edition) is worth the investment for players looking for a challenging and immersive wargame experience set in one of the most tumultuous periods of English history. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a history buff, this game offers a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of key figures during the English Civil Wars and shape the course of history.

Game Components of Cruel Necessity