Days of Decision (1990) Board Game

Days of Decision is a board game that was released in 1990 by Australian Design Group. It is a political and wargame set during World War II, where players take on the roles of various nations and make strategic decisions to gain power and influence.

Game Components of Days of Decision

Cards: Approximately 40 cards per side, each representing historical events or political maneuvers, with complementary or opposite effects.

Money and Resource Points: Used for paying the costs of playing cards.

Minor Country and Resource Centre Control: Tokens or markers for tracking influence and control.

US Entry Mechanics: Abstracted system influencing American entry into the war.

Dice: For resolving random events and campaigns.

How To Setup Days of Decision

To set up the game, players first organize the card decks according to the major powers involved, such as Germany, Italy, Japan, Commonwealth, China, US, and France. Each player selects a side and draws a starting hand of cards. The game board, if used, would typically display a map of the world highlighting key regions and resource centres. Players also need to initialize the US entry mechanics and any other tracking systems for money, resource points, and control of minor countries.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players play cards to influence historical events, draw minor countries into their sphere of influence, and build their power base. Each card has specific prerequisites and costs.

Simultaneous and Sequential Play: Some card plays are simultaneous, while others are sequential, depending on the card’s requirements.

Campaigns and Wars: Random or player-influenced events can trigger wars between minor powers, which are resolved through a wargame-like mechanism.

Game End: The game ends when war breaks out between major powers, and points are awarded based on money, successful options, control of minor countries, and resource centres, as well as the US entry.

Player Experience

Playing Days of Decision can be a deeply immersive and strategic experience. Players must carefully consider each card play, balancing short-term and long-term strategies. The game encourages a focused approach to eliminate unnecessary options and streamline decision-making. Despite its complexity, the game’s historical accuracy and the depth of its card play system make it engaging for history buffs and strategy enthusiasts.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game replicates historical options and events leading up to WWII.

Deep Strategy: Offers a wide range of alternatives and strategic depth.

Engaging Mechanics: The card play system and US entry mechanics are particularly well-regarded.

Customizable: Can be played as a stand-alone game or integrated with World in Flames.

Cons

Complexity: The rules and gameplay mechanics can be confusing, especially regarding die rolls and modifiers.

Time-Consuming: Games can take significantly longer than the estimated two to three hours.

Limited Multiplayer: While it can be played with two to seven players, it is most practical with two players.

Personal Thoughts on Days of Decision

Days of Decision is ideal for those who enjoy deep strategic games, particularly those with an interest in World War II history and diplomatic maneuvers. It is not for the casual gamer due to its complexity and long playtime. However, for enthusiasts of historical strategy games, it offers a rich and rewarding experience that simulates the intricate political and military landscape of the pre-WWII era.

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.