Look Away! (2007) Board Game

Look Away! is a board game released in 2007, designed by Craig Grando and featuring artwork by Against the Odds and LPS, Inc. The game is set during the American Civil War and falls under the war game category. With mechanics like dice rolling, hexagon grid movement, and points simulation, Look Away! puts players in the midst of strategic battles from this historic conflict.

Game Components of Look Away!

Map: A detailed map of the Georgia theater.

Units: Representing various Confederate and Union forces.

Game Charts: For combat resolution, movement, and administrative tasks.

Markers: For tracking strength points, morale, and other game states.

Dice: Used for resolving combat and other random events.

Rulebook: Detailing the game mechanics and setup.

How To Setup Look Away!

Setting up **Look Away** involves several steps. First, the map is laid out, and the units are placed according to the scenario being played. Players must then allocate strength points, guns, and other resources to their forces. The game charts and markers are prepared for tracking various game states. The setup requires careful attention to the initial dispositions of the armies and the terrain effects, such as the impact of towns on combat[5″).

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Combat Resolution: Uses a table-based system where combat strength determines the table used, and dice rolls with modifiers resolve the outcome.

Movement: Involves calculating movement points and reaction movements, which can be critical for defensive strategies.

Administrative Tasks: Players manage administration points to perform various actions, such as unit reorganization and reaction movements.

Game Objective: The ultimate goal is to simulate the historical campaigns of the Army of Tennessee in the Georgia theater, with the Union aiming to capture key cities and the Confederates aiming to defend them.

Player Experience

Playing **Look Away** is an immersive experience for wargame enthusiasts. The game demands strategic thinking, particularly in managing resources, positioning units, and timing movements and attacks. The detailed rules and charts add a layer of realism, making the game challenging but rewarding for those who enjoy operational-level wargames.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is meticulously researched to reflect the historical context of the Army of Tennessee’s campaigns.

Deep Strategy: Offers complex and engaging gameplay mechanics.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable setup ensure a different experience each time.

Detailed Components: The game includes a comprehensive rulebook and detailed charts.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be overwhelming for new players due to its detailed rules and mechanics.

Time-Consuming: Setup and gameplay can take several hours.

Steep Learning Curve: Requires significant time to understand and master the game’s intricacies.

Personal Thoughts on Look Away!

**Look Away** is tailored for experienced wargamers who appreciate the intricacies of operational-level simulations. It is not a game for casual players or those new to wargaming due to its complexity and the time required to play. However, for those who enjoy delving into historical military campaigns and strategic decision-making, **Look Away** offers a rich and rewarding experience.

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