Summit (1961) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Summit is a classic board game that was first released in 1961 by Milton Bradley. It was designed by Cameo Games and has become a favorite among fans of economic, negotiation, and political games. The game has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed by players of all ages.

Game Components of Summit

Board: An azimuthal projected map of the Earth viewed from the North Pole, with playable regions colored and non-playable regions shaded in various browns based on their economic and military value.

Pieces: Colored flags, I-Beams, red Military Threat chips, white Popular Support chips, and black Economic Pressure chips.

Cards: Situation cards that simulate various global events.

Player Tokens: Representing factories, steel mills, and military bases.

How To Setup Summit

Setup involves each player selecting a major power and placing their tokens on the board. The board is divided into regions, each with its own economic and military value. Players receive initial resources and chips based on their chosen power. The game also includes a small circlet holder with colored flags to track alliances, though this is often viewed as a gimmick.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Allocation: Players allocate resources to build military bases, steel mills, or consumer goods factories in various regions.

Area Control: Control of non-player states scores points, while consumer goods factories and military bases serve different strategic purposes.

Chips and Tokens: Use of I-Beams, Military Threat chips, Popular Support chips, and Economic Pressure chips to exert influence and protect interests.

Alliances: Forming alliances to gain advantages or create formidable forces.

Random Events: Responding to situation cards that introduce various challenges and opportunities.

Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate points by controlling regions and maintaining influence, with the game culminating in scoring rounds known as “Summit events.”

Player Experience

Playing Summit requires a balance of social skills, economic knowledge, and military tactics. Players must navigate the complexities of Cold War geopolitics, managing resources, forming alliances, and responding to global events. The game is known for its strategic depth and the need for careful planning and negotiation.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers a complex and engaging gameplay experience.

Historical Relevance: Reflects the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era.

Social Interaction: Encourages alliances and negotiations among players.

Replayability: Random events and multiple paths to victory ensure high replayability.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the numerous mechanics and strategies.

Length: Games can take over an hour to complete.

Outdated Components: Some components, like the alliance flags, are seen as gimmicks.

Personal Thoughts on Summit

Summit is a game geared towards adult players who enjoy complex strategy and historical themes. It is ideal for those interested in the Cold War era and who appreciate games that require a blend of economic, military, and social strategies. The game’s ability to simulate real-world geopolitical tensions, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, adds a layer of realism and depth that will appeal to history buffs and strategy enthusiasts alike. However, its complexity may deter casual gamers, making it more suited for experienced players looking for a challenging and immersive experience.

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