Lincoln’s War (2013) Board Game

Lincoln’s War’ is a board game that immerses players in the American Civil War, allowing them to take on the role of either the Union or Confederate forces. Designed by John Poniske and published by Multi-Man Publishing in 2013, this game offers a strategic and immersive experience for players interested in historical wargames.

Game Components of Lincoln’s War

Cards: The game uses a card-driven system where cards activate generals and serve as political currency (PC).

Player Boards: Each player has a board to manage their resources and track progress.

Diceless System: No dice are used; instead, the game relies entirely on card play.

Rulebook: Detailed instructions on setting up and playing the game.

Tokens and Markers: For tracking various game elements such as PC, army movements, and election results.

How To Setup Lincoln’s War

Setting up **Lincoln’s War** involves distributing the card decks, allocating player boards, and initial resource assignment. Players start by drawing a set of cards and setting up their respective boards according to the rulebook. The game requires careful initial setup to ensure each player has the necessary resources and cards to begin the game effectively.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Activation: Players use cards to activate generals and perform various actions.

Political Currency (PC): Cards also serve as PC, which is crucial for influencing political outcomes.

Resource Management: Managing cards and PC is key to success.

Election Mechanics: The game includes mechanics for the 1864 presidential election, which is a significant victory condition.

Objective: The primary objective is to win the 1864 presidential election or achieve military victories that sway public opinion and political influence.

Player Experience

Playing **Lincoln’s War** is a tense and immersive experience that delves deep into the political and military strategies of the American Civil War. Players must balance their military campaigns with political maneuvering, making it a game that requires both strategic thinking and tactical execution. The game’s unique blend of historical accuracy and alternate history scenarios adds a layer of depth and replayability.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers a highly strategic gameplay experience.

Historical Depth: Provides a detailed look into the political and military aspects of the American Civil War.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and card draws ensure no two games are the same.

Solo Play: Supports solo play, making it versatile for different player preferences.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its complex mechanics.

Length: Games can be quite long, typically lasting around 180 minutes.

Limited Casual Appeal: Due to its complexity, it may not be appealing to casual gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Lincoln’s War

**Lincoln’s War** is ideal for gamers who enjoy deep strategic games with a strong historical context. It is particularly suited for those interested in the American Civil War and willing to invest time into understanding its complex mechanics. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those who appreciate intricate strategy and historical depth.

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