Shattered States (1990) Board Game

Shattered States’ is a wargame released in 1990 that allows 2-6 players to engage in strategic gameplay set in a post-apocalyptic world. Designed by EMS, the game challenges players to navigate through a shattered society and compete for resources and power in a time of chaos and destruction.

Game Components of Shattered States

Game board

Player tokens and units

Cardboard counters

Rulebook

Maps representing fragmented U.S. territories

How To Setup Shattered States

Setting up Shattered States involves laying out the game board, which depicts a fragmented United States divided into various polarized factions. Players choose their factions and place their respective tokens and units on the board according to the initial setup rules outlined in the rulebook. Each player receives a set of cardboard counters to track resources, movements, and other game elements.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Wargame

Mechanics: Area Movement

Number of Players: 2-6

Playing Time: 120 minutes

Objective: Players aim to reunite the fragmented United States by managing resources, moving units, and negotiated alliances or conflicts with other factions.

Player Experience

Shattered States offers a complex and strategic gameplay experience, appealing to fans of wargames and those interested in geopolitical scenarios. The game requires careful planning, resource management, and strategic decision-making to achieve the goal of reunifying the country. The Area Movement mechanics add a layer of realism and complexity to the game.

Pros

Depth and Complexity: Suitable for experienced gamers looking for a challenging wargame.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and resource management.

Replayability: Multiple factions and scenarios provide varied gameplay experiences.

Historical Context: Offers a unique perspective on a hypothetical U.S. fragmentation scenario.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Not ideal for new or casual gamers due to its complexity.

Long Playing Time: Games can be quite lengthy, requiring a significant time commitment.

Limited Appeal: May not appeal to those who prefer lighter or more social board games.

Personal Thoughts on Shattered States

Shattered States is a game tailored for enthusiasts of wargames and strategic board games. It is not a game for the faint of heart or those new to complex board games. The game’s depth and complexity make it a great fit for experienced gamers who enjoy immersive, strategic gameplay. However, its lengthy playing time and steep learning curve mean it may not be the best choice for casual gaming sessions or family game nights.

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