Cruel Necessity is a board game that simulates the English Civil Wars, a series of conflicts fought between Parliamentarians and Royalists from 1642 to
The game captures the political, religious, and military struggles that defined this tumultuous period in English history. Players take on the role of key figures in the conflict, making strategic decisions to secure victory for their side.Game Components of Cruel Necessity: The English Civil Wars 1640-1653
One full color Rulebook with Designer’s NotesOne large mounted game boardOne Player Aid75 cardsOne sheet of thick, two-sided, multi-shaped game piecesOne blue (Parliamentary) 6-sided dieOne red (Royalist) 6-sided die
How To Setup Cruel Necessity: The English Civil Wars 1640-1653
Setup involves placing the game board, shuffling and dealing the card decks, and positioning the game pieces according to the initial setup rules outlined in the Rulebook. The game is designed to be played within 60 minutes.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Solitaire Gameplay: Designed for solo play but also suitable for group and classroom cooperative play.Card-Driven Mechanics: Uses separate card decks to recreate historical military and political events.Area Control: Players must manage and defend key areas, including London.Resource Management: Manage resources to suppress enemies of Puritanism and Parliamentary Government.Objective: Stop the advance of four armies bent on destroying Parliament and Puritanism, and suppress enemies in England, Scotland, and Ireland.
Player Experience
Players take on the role of the Parliamentarian forces, navigating the complexities of the English Civil Wars. The game requires strategic decision-making to manage resources, defend key locations, and respond to historical events. The inclusion of civil wars in Scotland and Ireland adds a layer of complexity, making each playthrough dynamic and challenging.
Pros
High-Quality Components: The deluxe edition features super high-quality components, including a mounted board, thick game pieces, and large font player aids.Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously designed to reflect the historical events of the English Civil Wars.Replayability: Separate card decks for each of the three English Civil Wars ensure varied gameplay experiences.Educational Value: Suitable for classroom and group cooperative play, making it a great educational tool.
Cons
Complexity: The game can be complex due to the multiple layers of strategy and historical events.Steep Learning Curve: Requires a good understanding of the rules and mechanics before playing effectively.Limited Multiplayer: Primarily designed for solo play, though it can be adapted for cooperative play.
Personal Thoughts on Cruel Necessity: The English Civil Wars 1640-1653
This game is ideal for history enthusiasts, particularly those interested in the English Civil Wars, and for players who enjoy solitaire or cooperative strategy games. The high-quality components and detailed historical context make it a compelling addition to any wargamer’s collection. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and steep learning curve.
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