The March of Progress (2020) Board Game

The March of Progress is a strategic board game that covers various historical periods, including Napoleonic, World War I, and World War II. Designed by Alan Paull and illustrated by Klemens Franz, this game was released in 2020 by Surprised Stare Games Ltd. With a runtime of 30 minutes and recommended for players aged 12 and up, it offers a unique blend of card game and wargame mechanics.

Game Components of The March of Progress

Action cards

Country cards

Victory point tokens

Rulebook

Historical scenario booklets

How To Setup The March of Progress

To set up the game, players first select a historical scenario, each of which has its own unique setup and rule tweaks. Players then distribute the country cards according to the scenario’s instructions. Each player receives a set of action cards, and the game is ready to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Abstract strategy wargame

Designer: Alan Paull

Game Mechanics: Card play, area control, variable setup

Objective: Control countries by playing action cards to generate victory points during scoring.

Player Experience

The March of Progress offers a tightly designed and strategic experience for two players. Each game is relatively short, making it a great fit for those who enjoy quick, intense strategic engagements. The game’s historical scenarios add variety, ensuring that each playthrough feels unique.

Pros

Compact and Portable: Part of the Pocket Campaigns series, making it easy to carry and play anywhere.

Historical Scenarios: Multiple scenarios based on different historical contexts, adding replayability.

Strategic Depth: Simple to learn but challenging to master, offering a deep strategic experience.

Quick Games: Games are typically short, lasting around 30-60 minutes.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed strictly for two players, which may limit its appeal for larger groups.

Complexity in Rules: While the core mechanics are straightforward, the varying rules for each scenario can be confusing for new players.

Abstract Nature: The game’s abstract nature might not appeal to players seeking a more thematic experience.

Personal Thoughts on The March of Progress

The March of Progress is ideal for fans of strategic wargames and those who appreciate compact, portable games. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy card play and area control mechanics, and are looking for a game that offers a lot of replay value through its various historical scenarios. While it may not be the best fit for larger groups or players seeking highly thematic experiences, it stands out as a compelling addition to any two-player game collection.

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