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Hearts and Minds: Vietnam 1965-1975 (Third Edition) (2019) Board Game

ByMichail

Hearts and Minds: Vietnam 1965-1975 is a board game that simulates the political, military, and social aspects of the Vietnam War. The game covers the period from 1965 to 1975, during which the conflict in Vietnam escalated and eventually concluded with the fall of Saigon.

Game Components of Hearts and Minds: Vietnam 1965-1975

  • Rule/Scenario Book: 24 pages
  • Solitaire Player Aid**
  • Counter Sheets: 3 sheets (3/4” Counters)
  • Mounted Map: 22” x 33”
  • Card Decks: 80 Standard Playing Cards (27 Red, 27 Blue, 28 Black)
  • Dice: Two 6-sided dice (1 Red, 1 Blue)
  • Box and Lid Set**

    How To Setup Hearts and Minds: Vietnam 1965-1975

    Setup involves shuffling half of the black deck into each of the red and blue decks to ensure a different game every time. Players choose their side (Allies or Communist) and select the scenario, which can start in any year of the war and end in any later year. The game includes a premium mounted map with all necessary charts and a simple, yet comprehensive rulebook.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Card-Driven Mechanics: Cards indicate Resource Points (RPs), historic situations, and game effects.
  • Guerrilla Warfare: VC units remain hidden until engaged and may be false information.
  • Political Turmoil: Card events cover mass protests in the U.S. and instability of the South Vietnamese government.
  • Faction Differentiation: Players choose between Allies (US, ARVN, Cambodian, Laotian) or Communist (NVA, VC, Cambodian, Laotian).
  • Veteran Advantages: Certain cards provide increased abilities.
  • Objective: Control the “Hearts and Minds” in each province, managing casualties and political stability to achieve victory.

    Player Experience

    Players experience a dynamic and historically rich environment where they must balance military strategy with political considerations. The game’s flexibility allows players to start and end in any year of the war, providing a unique experience each time. The game has been praised for its ease of play and historical accuracy, making it a valuable teaching tool.

    Pros

  • Historical Accuracy: Comprehensive historical approach to the Vietnam War.
  • Flexibility: Players can start and end in any year of the war.
  • Ease of Play: Simplified combat system and low counter density.
  • Solitaire Friendly: High solitaire capability with tested solitaire rules.
  • Quality Components: Premium mounted map, full-sized poker quality card deck.

    Cons

  • Casualty Management: Some players find managing U.S. and ARVN casualties to be overly gamey and ahistorical.
  • Abstracted Scale: Units are abstract and may not appeal to players seeking detailed unit simulations.

    Personal Thoughts on Hearts and Minds: Vietnam 1965-1975

    This game is ideal for those interested in historical strategy games, particularly those with a focus on the Vietnam War. It offers a balanced mix of military strategy and political management, making it engaging for both casual and experienced gamers. The game’s solitaire capability and flexibility in scenario selection add to its replay value, making it a great addition to any board game collection.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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