Pursuit of Glory (2008) Board Game

Pursuit of Glory is a board game that simulates the events of World War I in the Middle East. It was released in 2008 and designed by Rodger B. MacGowan and Mark Simonitch. The game focuses on the conflicts between the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire) and the Allies (Britain, Russia, and France) in the region.

Game Components of Pursuit of Glory

Game Map: A 22-inch by 34-inch mounted board.

Counters: 176 Large Combat Units (LCUs) and 280 Small Combat Units (SCUs).

Strategy Cards: 110 cards, each with historic events, command points, or resources.

Player Aid Cards and Quick Start Guides: For easy reference and setup.

Rule Book and Play Book: Full-color rules and playbook, including all errata and updates.

Dice: Two 6-sided dice.

How To Setup Pursuit of Glory

Setting up **Pursuit of Glory** involves several steps. First, players need to place the game map, which is divided into regions and spaces indicating control and neutrality. Each player receives their respective counters and strategy cards. The game includes two main scenarios: the 1914 Scenario and the 1916 Total War Scenario. Players must set up their units according to the chosen scenario and ensure all components are correctly placed on the map.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card-Driven Mechanics: Players use strategy cards for historic events, command points, or resources.

Point-to-Point Movement: Units move between defined spaces on the map.

Combat and Attrition: Combat is influenced by terrain, and units can suffer attrition if out of supply.

War Commitment Levels: Players can switch between Mobilization, Limited War, and Total War, each adding new strategy cards to their deck.

Victory Points: Players gain victory points by capturing key spaces, playing events, and other special circumstances.

Objective: As the British/Russian alliance, players aim to hold key positions and support their allies, while as the Ottomans, the goal is to unite with German strength and cripple the British Empire in Egypt and India.

Player Experience

Playing **Pursuit of Glory** is a dynamic and tense experience. Players are constantly on the edge, making strategic decisions with each hand of seven cards. The game requires balancing historic events, resource management, and tactical decisions to achieve victory. Players walk in the shoes of historical figures like Churchill, Lawrence of Arabia, and Enver, navigating the complexities of the Great War in the Near East.

Pros

Historical Depth: Rich in historical events and figures, offering a immersive experience.

Strategic Complexity: Engaging card-driven mechanics that require strategic thinking.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable setup ensure high replay value.

Updated Rules: The second edition includes all errata and the latest rule updates.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Complex rules and setup can be overwhelming for new players.

Time Commitment: Games can be lengthy, requiring significant time to complete.

Limited Player Count: Designed for one or two players, limiting multiplayer options.

Personal Thoughts on Pursuit of Glory

**Pursuit of Glory** is ideal for fans of historical strategy games and those interested in the lesser-known theaters of World War I. It offers a challenging and rewarding experience, particularly for players who enjoy card-driven mechanics and intricate strategy. However, due to its complexity and time requirement, it may not be the best fit for casual or new board game enthusiasts.

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