Fredericksburg: The Union Repulsed, Dec. 13, 1862 (1975) Board Game

Fredericksburg: The Union Repulsed, Dec. 13, 1862 is a historical wargame that simulates the Battle of Fredericksburg during the American Civil War. The game allows players to take on the roles of Union and Confederate forces as they battle for control of strategic locations around Fredericksburg, Virginia on December 13,

Designed by Redmond A. Simonsen and published in 1975 by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.), this game offers a detailed and immersive experience of this pivotal moment in history.

Game Components

Map: A small map representing the battlefield.

Counters: 100 counters, each representing different units and elements of the Union and Confederate armies.

Rules: A set of rules adapted from SPI’s 1972 game *Napoleon at War*.

Game Box: Originally part of the *Blue & Gray II* collection, also released as a stand-alone “folio” game.

How To Setup

To set up the game, players need to deploy their units according to the historical positions of the Union and Confederate armies during the Battle of Fredericksburg. The Union player must cross the Rappahannock River and deploy units in preparation for assaults against the entrenched Confederate positions. The Confederate player sets up defensive positions, including strongholds like Marye’s Heights, Telegraph Hill, and the Sunken Wall.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Alternating “I Go, You Go” series of turns, with each turn representing 1–2 hours of game time.

Unit Movement: The Union player can only move 15 units per turn, reflecting the historical delays and disorganization.

Zone of Control: Enemy units entering a zone of control cannot move further or leave without combat.

Attack Effectiveness: Optional rule where an attacking unit that retreats cannot attack again for the rest of the game day.

Game Objective: The Union player must take key positions from the Confederates, while the Confederate player aims to hold these positions and repel the Union attacks.

Player Experience

Playing *Fredericksburg: The Union Repulsed* is a challenging and historically immersive experience. The game requires strategic planning, especially for the Union player, who must overcome significant logistical and tactical disadvantages. The Confederate player benefits from strong defensive positions and interior lines, allowing for a more passive yet effective defensive strategy.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game closely follows the historical events of the Battle of Fredericksburg.

Simple yet Engaging Mechanics: Despite its simplicity, the game offers a compelling and challenging experience.

Educational Value: Players learn about the strategic and tactical aspects of the American Civil War.

Combination with Other Games: The game can be combined with other battles in the *Blue & Gray II* series for a broader campaign experience.

Cons

Limited Unit Movement: The restriction on Union unit movement can feel artificial and limiting.

Lack of Creative Maneuvering: The game’s design emphasizes the historical accuracy of the Union’s futile frontal assaults, limiting creative strategies.

Basic Gameplay: Some players may find the gameplay mechanics too simple compared to more complex wargames.

Personal Thoughts on Fredericksburg: The Union Repulsed, Dec. 13, 1862

This game is ideal for those interested in the American Civil War and specifically the Battle of Fredericksburg. It serves as a good introduction to board wargaming due to its simplicity and historical focus. However, experienced players might find the gameplay mechanics too basic and the restrictions on unit movement too limiting. Overall, it is a great game for those looking to understand the strategic challenges and historical context of one of the Civil War’s most significant battles.

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