Devil’s Horsemen (2004) Board Game

Devil’s Horsemen is a medieval wargame released in 2004 by Banana Games. Designed by Richard H. Berg and Mark Herman, this game allows for intense strategic gameplay set in the medieval era. With a focus on historical accuracy and simulation, Devil’s Horsemen provides an immersive experience for players looking to engage in tactical warfare.

Game Components of Devil’s Horsemen

Maps: Four battle maps, including The Indus, The Kalka, Liegnitz, and Ayn Jalut.

Units: Representing various armies such as Mongols, Polovtsians, Galicians, Chernigovians, Kievans, Persian Khwarazmians, Poles, Silesians, Bohemians, Teutonic Knights, and the Mamluks.

Rules: Basic rules for regular and SimpleGBoH play, including detailed archery and cavalry mechanics.

Vassal Module: Includes battles of Liegnitz and Ayn Jalut, with an extension for the Battle of Indus.

How To Setup Devil’s Horsemen

To set up the game, players must first select the battle they wish to recreate. Each battle has its specific map and unit setup. For example, The Indus battle uses one mapsheet, while The Kalka battle uses two mapsheets. Players must place their units according to the historical deployment indicated in the rules. The game includes detailed instructions for setting up each of the four major battles included.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cavalry and Archery Mechanics: Detailed rules for mounted archery, including Shower Fire, Impetuosity and Aggression, Feigned Retreat, Harass and Disperse tactics, and Rally to Standards.

Time Scale: 20 minutes per turn.

Map Scale: 100 yards per hex.

Unit Scale: 500 men per foot unit.

Number of Players: 1-2 players can play the game.

Objective: Players aim to recreate historical battles with the goal of achieving victory through strategic use of cavalry and archery tactics.

Player Experience

Playing **Devil’s Horsemen** offers a rich and immersive experience, especially for history buffs and fans of tactical warfare. The game requires careful planning and execution, as players must utilize the unique abilities of their units effectively. The variety of armies and battles adds to the game’s replayability, allowing players to explore different historical scenarios.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched and stays true to historical events.

Deep Strategy: The detailed mechanics for cavalry and archery provide a challenging and engaging gameplay experience.

Replayability: Four distinct battles and various armies ensure multiple playthroughs are unique.

Educational: Players learn about significant battles and tactics of the Mongol era.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game’s rules can be complex and overwhelming for new players.

Limited Player Count: The game is designed for 1-2 players, which might limit its appeal for larger groups.

Time Commitment: Each turn takes 20 minutes, making the game quite lengthy.

Personal Thoughts on Devil’s Horsemen

**Devil’s Horsemen** is ideal for fans of historical warfare and tactical strategy. It is a game that rewards careful planning and historical knowledge. While it may not be the best choice for casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a gem for those who enjoy deep, strategic gameplay and are interested in the military history of the Mongol era.

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