Holy War (1979) – Board Game Guys

Holy War is a science fiction board wargame published by Metagaming Concepts in 1979. The game is designed by Lynn Willis and is a two-player game in which one player controls the Sunthrowers, and the other controls the Holy Band. Combat is done in three dimensions, and movement uses a dual horizontal and vertical system previously used in Godsfire. The game is part of the MicroGame line, which was a small pocket-sized wargame packaged in a ziplock bag. The game is significant because it was one of the first microgames ever published and was designed by Lynn Willis, who later became a prominent game designer.

Game Components of Holy War

Game Board: Represents a pocket universe.

Unit Types: Includes Rangers, Probes, Warp Line Generators, Luck Ships, Star Busters, Jammerswarms, Pressorships, Psycheship, and Emissary of Prayerships.

Rules: Printed in a compact format, characteristic of microgames.

Player Pieces: Tokens and counters for the two factions: the Holy Band and the Sunthrowers.

How To Setup Holy War

To set up Holy War, players need to place the game board, which depicts the pocket universe, in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses their faction, either the Holy Band or the Sunthrowers, and sets up their respective units according to the initial deployment rules. The game involves a dual horizontal and vertical movement system, similar to Willis’s earlier game, Godsfire.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics: Hex-and-Counter system with 3D combat.

Movement: Dual horizontal and vertical system.

Objective: The Holy Band aims to protect the pocket universe from the Sunthrowers, who seek to destroy it to gain freedom.

Gameplay: Players engage in strategic battles using various unit types, each with unique abilities.

Player Experience

Playing Holy War can be a complex and challenging experience due to its intricate rules and unique gameplay mechanics. The game requires strategic thinking and a good understanding of the various unit types and their capabilities.

Pros

Unique Concept: The game features an innovative setting and storyline.

Variety of Units: A wide array of unit types adds depth to the gameplay.

Sci-Fi Theme: Appeals to fans of science fiction and strategic wargames.

Portability: As a microgame, it is compact and easy to carry.

Cons

Complex Rules: The rules are often criticized for being obscure and difficult to learn.

Balance Issues: Changes made by Metagaming from the original design have been noted to unbalance the game.

Replay Value: Limited by having only one main scenario.

Solitaire Play: Not well-suited for solo play.

Personal Thoughts on Holy War

Holy War is for fans of science fiction and strategic wargames who are looking for a challenging and unique gaming experience. However, due to its complex rules and balance issues, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those new to wargames. Despite its flaws, Holy War offers a rich and immersive gameplay experience that rewards strategic thinking and patience.

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