The Far Seas (1987) Board Game

The Far Seas is a nautical wargame set during World War I, designed by Martin Anderson and published by 3W (World Wide Wargames) in in 1987. The game allows two players to engage in strategic naval battles, simulating the intense naval warfare of the early 20th century.

Game Components of The Far Seas

Global map depicting the world

Game pieces representing German raiders and Allied forces

Rulebook

Various game cards and markers

How To Setup The Far Seas

To set up the game, players first lay out the global map. Each player then deploys their respective forces according to the initial setup rules outlined in the rulebook. The German player places the merchant raiders in secret locations, while the Allied player places their naval units in designated areas. Once all pieces are in place, the game is ready to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Hidden movement: German raiders move secretly.

Area control: Allies need to cover large areas of the map.

Tactical planning: Players must strategize to intercept or evade opponents.

Game Objective

German player: Evade capture and disrupt Allied shipping.

Allied player: Locate and sink German merchant raiders.

Player Experience

Playing The Far Seas offers a strategic and immersive experience, particularly for those interested in historical naval warfare. The game requires careful planning and tactical execution, as the Allied player must balance wide-area coverage with targeted searches, while the German player must use stealth and cunning to avoid detection.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game provides a nuanced look at early World War I naval strategies.

Strategic Depth: Players must use complex tactics to outmaneuver their opponent.

Simple Setup: Despite the complexity of gameplay, the setup is relatively straightforward.

Cons

Limited Players: The game is designed for only two players.

Outdated Mechanics: Some modern gamers might find the mechanics less engaging compared to newer games.

Time Commitment: Games can be lengthy, requiring several hours to complete.

Personal Thoughts on The Far Seas

The Far Seas is ideal for history buffs and fans of naval warfare, particularly those who enjoy strategic, two-player games. It offers a unique perspective on the early days of World War I and requires a level of strategic thinking that will appeal to players looking for a challenging and thought-provoking experience. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking more dynamic or cooperative gameplay.

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