The Cousins’ War (Second Edition) (2018) Board Game

The Cousins’ War, also known as the Wars of the Roses, was a series of civil wars fought in England between the House of Lancaster and the House of York for control of the English throne in the 15th century. The game, The Cousins’ War (Second Edition), captures the essence of this historical conflict in a strategic card game format.

Game Components of The Cousins’ War

Cards: The game primarily consists of cards used for area majority/influence, campaign/battle card-driven mechanics, and dice rolling.

Dice: Used for resolving various in-game actions.

Rulebook: Available in English.

Box: A small box containing all the necessary components.

How To Setup The Cousins’ War

To set up the game, players need to shuffle the card deck and distribute the cards according to the rules outlined in the rulebook. Each player selects their starting cards, and any specific setup requirements are detailed in the rulebook. The setup is relatively straightforward, allowing players to quickly begin their game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Majority / Influence: Players compete to control areas on the board.

Campaign / Battle Card Driven: Cards drive the campaign and battle phases of the game.

Dice Rolling: Used to resolve conflicts and determine outcomes.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most influence and control over key areas, ultimately winning the war.

Player Experience

The Cousins’ War offers a strategic and engaging experience for two players. The game’s mechanics, such as area majority and card-driven battles, provide a deep and interactive gameplay experience. The short playtime of 30 minutes makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a quick yet meaningful game session.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Despite its short playtime, the game offers significant strategic depth.

Quick Setup: Easy and quick to set up, allowing players to dive into the game promptly.

Historical Theme: Set in the Wars of the Roses, it provides a unique historical context.

Compact Design: Part of the Pocket Campaigns series, making it portable.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed only for 2 players, limiting its appeal for larger groups.

Complexity: While the complexity is rated at 2.1 out of 5, some players may find the rules and mechanics a bit intricate.

Personal Thoughts on The Cousins’ War

The Cousins’ War (Second Edition) is ideal for fans of historical themes, card games, and strategic gameplay. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy competitive two-player games with a medieval setting. The game’s balance of strategy and luck, combined with its compact design, makes it a great addition to any board game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking games for larger groups or those who prefer simpler, more casual gaming experiences.

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