Sovereign Of The Seas (2017) Board Game

Sovereign Of The Seas is a board game that was released in in 2017. It is a game set in the Age of Reason, focusing on nautical themes and wargame mechanics. The game was designed by Brien J. Miller and features artwork by Compass Games.

Game Components of Sovereign Of The Seas

Two 22 x 34 inch maps

Six countersheets with approximately 600 counters

One rulebook

Rules and scenario book

Player aid cards

Dice

One box and lid set.

How To Setup Sovereign Of The Seas

Setting up **Sovereign Of The Seas** involves arranging the maps, placing the counters according to the scenario rules, and organizing the player aid cards and other components. The game requires dividing ships, leaders, and control markers into squadrons, which can be complex and prone to errors, especially in congested sea spaces around home ports. The rulebook suggests players sit at opposite ends of the map to manage the extensive counter handling.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Area movement

Individual capital ships and leaders

Battle line resolutions

Rolling sixes to hit

Search and resupply mechanisms

Game Objective

For the English player: Destroy the naval forces of the European Powers and prevent them from controlling vital sea areas.

For the European Powers player: Escape English forces and gain temporary sea control to support continental and colonial objectives.

Player Experience

Playing **Sovereign Of The Seas** is a complex yet elegant experience. The game mechanics are simple to learn, involving move, search, fight, and resupply actions, but the counter management can be overwhelming. The game requires a significant amount of time and space, with each game taking around 3-4 hours to complete. Despite the historical accuracy and immersive scenarios, the game’s counter handling and rulebook complexity can be frustrating.

Pros

Historically accurate ships and leaders

Immersive scenarios reflecting historical events

Simple and elegant core mechanics

Suitable for solitaire play with a high solitaire suitability rating.

Cons

Extensive counter handling and potential for errors

Complex and sometimes opaque rulebook

Congested sea spaces, especially around home ports

Similar flag designs can be confusing.

Personal Thoughts on Sovereign Of The Seas

**Sovereign Of The Seas** is for experienced wargamers who appreciate historical accuracy and strategic naval warfare. While it offers a deep and immersive experience, it may not be the best fit for those new to wargames or those who prefer simpler, more streamlined gameplay. The game’s complexity and counter management issues might make it more suited to a digital adaptation to automate these aspects. However, for those who enjoy the Age of Sail and are willing to invest the time, **Sovereign Of The Seas** can be a rewarding and engaging experience.

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