Iron Curtain (2017) Board Game

Iron Curtain is a card game that simulates the tension and competition between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. Players take on the roles of the superpowers’ leaders, trying to influence various countries to their side while avoiding escalating tensions that could lead to all-out war.

Game Components of Iron Curtain

20 cards (1 starter card, 1 scoring card, 10 US strategy cards, 8 USSR strategy cards)

48 influence cubes (24 each of two colors)

1 yellow scoring marker

How To Setup Iron Curtain

To set up Iron Curtain, place the scoring card on the table with the yellow scoring marker in the center. Each player receives 24 influence cubes of their respective color. The strategy cards are shuffled, and five cards are dealt to each player. The remaining eight cards are set face-down to the side.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Card Placement: Players place cards orthogonally adjacent to matching color cards.

Regional Scoring: Regions score when all cards of a particular color are played.

Influence Cubes: Players add cubes to control cards and regions.

Event Actions: Cards can trigger special actions or immediate victory points.

Command Actions: Allow players to add influence cubes to controlled or adjacent cards.

Game Objective

The goal is to dominate face-up cards by placing more influence cubes than your opponent.

Players earn ideology points (victory points) for controlling regions and additional points for regional bonuses.

The game ends immediately if a player moves the scoring token to their flag; otherwise, it concludes after two rounds with final scoring.

Player Experience

Iron Curtain offers a quick and intense gaming experience, lasting about 30 minutes. Players must strategically place cards and manage their influence cubes to control regions and earn points. The game requires careful planning and timely execution of event and command actions.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: Games last only 30 minutes.

Simple yet Strategic: Easy to learn but offers depth in strategy.

Historical Theme: A great introduction to the Cold War era for younger players.

Portable: The game consists of only 20 cards and influence cubes, making it highly portable.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed only for two players.

Simplistic Components: Some players may find the components too basic.

Short Game Length: Some players might prefer longer, more immersive games.

Personal Thoughts on Iron Curtain

Iron Curtain is ideal for those interested in a brief, strategic game that touches on historical themes. It serves as a good introduction to the Cold War for younger players and is a great choice for fans of micro games who want a quick, competitive experience. However, it may not appeal to players seeking more complex or longer games.

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