Little Round Top (1982) Board Game

Little Round Top is a board game that was released in 1982 by 3W (World Wide Wargames). It is set in the American Civil War era and focuses on the Battle of Little Round Top, which took place during the Battle of Gettysburg in in 1982. The game is a wargame that simulates the strategic and tactical aspects of this important battle.

Game Components of Little Round Top

Map: A 17″ x 22″ hex grid map scaled at 20 yards per hex.

Counters: 100 counters representing units and markers.

Rules: 12 pages of rules, indicating a relatively complex game.

How To Setup Little Round Top

To set up the game, players must first lay out the map board, which depicts the terrain around Little Round Top. Each player then deploys their units according to the initial setup rules, with the Union player typically defending the hill and the Confederate player attempting to capture it. The Union player must carefully position the 20th Maine Infantry Regiment and other units to defend the left flank, while the Confederate player must plan a strategic approach to roll up the Union line.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Turn Structure: Alternating turns with phases for Command, Movement, Defensive Fire, Fire, and Melee.

Command Points: Players use command points to rally units and determine which units are within command distance of a leader.

Bayonet Fixing: Units with fixed bayonets gain an advantage in melee but cannot fire.

Game Objective

Victory Points: Players earn points for inflicting casualties and holding specific hexes on the hill at the end of the game.

Game Duration: The game consists of 18 turns, each representing six minutes of combat.

Player Experience

**Little Round Top** offers a deeply tactical and historically rooted gaming experience. Players must balance unit deployments, maneuvering, and the use of command points to outmaneuver their opponent. The game’s complexity, with its detailed rules and strategic depth, appeals to seasoned wargamers who enjoy the nuances of historical battles.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game closely simulates the actual battle, making it appealing to history buffs and wargaming enthusiasts.

Strategic Depth: The command point system and the need to manage unit positions and actions add significant strategic layers to the game.

Clear Rules: Despite the complexity, the rules are generally praised for being clear and well-organized.

Cons

Predictability: Some reviewers found the game’s outcomes to be somewhat predictable, reducing the element of surprise.

Complexity: The 12 pages of rules can be intimidating for new players, making it less accessible to casual gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Little Round Top

**Little Round Top** is ideal for wargaming enthusiasts and those with a strong interest in the American Civil War. It offers a challenging and historically accurate simulation that requires careful planning and strategic execution. While it may not be the best fit for new or casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a rewarding experience for those who enjoy deep tactical games and historical reenactments.

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