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The Last King of Scotland: The Uganda-Tanzania War 1978-1979 (2011) Board Game

ByMichail

The Last King of Scotland: The Uganda-Tanzania War 1978-1979 board game is a historical wargame that focuses on the conflict between Uganda and Tanzania that took place in the late 1970s. This war was sparked by the oppressive rule of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin and the Tanzanian government’s support for Ugandan rebel forces. The game allows players to simulate this conflict and explore the strategic decisions made by both sides during this tumultuous period in East African history.

Game Components of The Last King of Scotland: The Uganda-Tanzania War 1978-1979

  • Hex grid map** of Uganda
  • Counters** representing military units
  • Dice** for resolving combat
  • Supply markers**
  • Reinforcement cards**
  • Rulebook**
  • Mounted board**

    How To Setup The Last King of Scotland: The Uganda-Tanzania War 1978-1979

    Setup involves placing the mounted board, which features a map of Uganda, and deploying the initial units according to the scenario rules. Players must also set up supply routes and determine starting reinforcements. The game includes clear instructions, but the rulebook can be slightly cumbersome due to its structure as the first in a series of games on African wars.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Hex-and-counter system: Units move and fight on a hex grid.
  • Month-based turns: Each turn represents one month of the conflict.
  • Supply management: Units must maintain supply routes to remain effective.
  • Reinforcements: New units and resources are introduced over time.
  • Objective:
    – Tanzania must capture key cities to win.
    – Uganda must hold off the Tanzanian advance.

    Player Experience

    The game is designed to be intuitive and easy to learn, even for those new to wargames. It features a clean and brisk gameplay experience that lasts about 90 minutes, allowing players to switch sides and play again. The game’s pace is well-balanced, with the Tanzanians feeling a sense of urgency to capture key cities before their resources dwindle, while the Ugandans must strategically defend against the numerically superior Tanzanian forces.

    Pros

  • Easy to learn: Simple unit differences and clear rules.
  • Fast-paced gameplay: Lasts about 90 minutes.
  • Historical insight: Provides a fascinating look into a lesser-known conflict.
  • Good production quality: Mounted board and thick, rounded counters.
  • Intuitive design: Efficient mechanics make it accessible to new players.

    Cons

  • Rulebook structure: Can be cumbersome due to its dual-purpose design.
  • Limited unit variety: While this makes the game simpler, it may lack complexity for some players.

    Personal Thoughts on The Last King of Scotland: The Uganda-Tanzania War 1978-1979

    This game is ideal for those curious about wargames but intimidated by the complexity often associated with the genre. It offers a great introduction to hex-and-counter games and provides a compelling historical context. The game’s balance between simplicity and strategic depth makes it enjoyable for both newcomers and experienced wargamers. At a relatively inexpensive price point of around $30, it’s a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those interested in military history or looking for a quick and engaging wargaming experience.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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