Little Big Horn (1981) Board Game

Little Big Horn is a board game that was released in 1981 and is set during the American Indian Wars. The game allows players to reenact the famous battle of Little Bighorn, where General Custer and his troops were defeated by Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors.

Game Components of Little Big Horn

Game board with hexagon grid

Dice

Player pieces representing soldiers and Native American warriors

Rulebook

How To Setup Little Big Horn

Place the game board in the center of the playing area.

Each player chooses a side, either as General Custer’s troops or the Native American warriors.

Place the appropriate player pieces on the board according to the setup diagram in the rulebook.

Roll dice to determine who goes first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns moving their pieces on the hexagon grid, engaging in combat with opposing forces. The objective for General Custer’s troops is to eliminate as many Native American warriors as possible, while the Native Americans aim to defend their territory and outlast the troops.

Player Experience

Pros

Immersive reenactment of historical battle

Strategic gameplay with dice rolling and hexagon grid

Educational value in learning about American Indian Wars

Cons

Long playing time of 6 hours may be too lengthy for some players

Limited replay value once players have mastered strategies

Personal Thoughts on Little Big Horn

Little Big Horn offers a unique gaming experience for history buffs and strategy enthusiasts. The game’s components and artwork are well-designed, capturing the essence of the American West. While the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its lengthy playing time, it offers a deep dive into the complexities of the battle of Little Bighorn.

In terms of pricing and availability, Little Big Horn can be found in the second-hand market for collectors or enthusiasts. As an alternative, players interested in similar games may also enjoy titles like “Battle Cry” or “Axis & Allies.” Overall, Little Big Horn is worth exploring for those interested in historical wargames and the American Indian Wars. However, casual gamers or those seeking quick gameplay may want to skip this title.

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