Russian Civil War 1918-1922 (1976)

Russian Civil War 1918–1922

The Russian Civil War was a multi-year conflict that took place in Russia from 1918 to 1922. It was fought between the Bolshevik Red Army, who were loyal to the newly formed Soviet government, and various groups that opposed them, including the counter-revolutionary White Army, nationalist forces, and foreign interventionists. The war was marked by brutal fighting, political purges, and widespread famine and disease.

Why is Russian Civil War 1918–1922 Popular?

Russian Civil War 1918-1922 is a board wargame that simulates the Russian Civil War. It was first published by Simulations Publications Inc. (SPI) in 1976 and has remained a popular and sought-after game among wargamers. The game is significant because it allows players to experience the challenges and complexities of the Russian Civil War, including the political maneuvering, military strategy, and economic struggles of the various factions involved.

Game Components of Russian Civil War 1918-1922

2 Piece Board: The game includes a two-part board.

400 Counters: These are punched into rows and include units for the Reds, Whites, nationalist forces (green), and interventionist forces (blue), as well as individual leaders, Imperial Gold, and the Tsar.

2 Dice: Used for resolving combat and other random events.

Original Instructions: Detailed rules for gameplay.

Plastic Tray: For organizing the counters.

Advertising Sheet: Additional information and promotional materials.

How To Setup Russian Civil War 1918-1922

At the start, each player draws unit counters from a general pool, resulting in a mixture of all four colors. The setup is random, ensuring each game is unique. Players begin by distributing the counters, which represent various factions and leaders.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Random Events: Players draw Randomizer counters, which can award Assassin markers, control over nationalist or interventionist forces, or trigger the withdrawal of Blue forces.

Movement: Players move their units across the board.

Combat: Units of different factions can engage in combat, with specific rules about who can attack whom (e.g., Red units can attack everyone, White units can attack Red and Green but not Blue).

Purges and Assassinations: Special rules allow for the elimination of leaders.

Rebuilding Units: Players can return eliminated units to play if they control the home province of the unit, but this ability ends after the fifth turn.

Victory Conditions: The game is won by either the Red or White faction. Players accumulate victory points for the winning faction, and the player with the most points wins.

Player Experience

**Russian Civil War 1918-1922** offers a dynamic and complex gaming experience, suitable for 3-6 players. The game is praised for its balance and unpredictability, making each playthrough unique. It requires strategic thinking and adaptability, as players must navigate the intricate web of alliances and conflicts.

Pros

Unique Gameplay: Each game is different due to the random setup.

Balanced Mechanics: No player has a significant advantage, ensuring fairness.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and decision-making.

High Replayability: Players can experience a wide range of scenarios.

Cons

Complexity: The game involves detailed rules and multiple phases, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Long Playtime: Games can be lengthy due to the intricate mechanics and strategic considerations.

Limited Modern Availability: Original copies are rare and sought after, making it hard to find the game without a high price tag.

Personal Thoughts on Russian Civil War 1918-1922

This game is ideal for experienced wargamers and those interested in historical conflicts. Its complexity and depth make it a challenging but rewarding experience. If you have a group of friends who enjoy strategic games and are not afraid of intricate rules, **Russian Civil War 1918-1922** is a great choice. However, for casual gamers or those new to wargames, it might be too daunting. Despite its age, the game remains a classic in the wargaming community, highly valued for its historical accuracy and engaging gameplay.

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