WarChest (1999) Board Game – Board Game Guys

WarChest is a strategic wargame that was released in 1999 by Lance and Laser Models, Inc. It is a two-player game that falls under the categories of collectible components, fantasy, medieval, and wargame. The game is designed for players aged 12 and up and features variable player powers as a key gameplay mechanism.

Game Components of WarChest

74 Unit Coins

4 Royal Coins

16 Unit Cards

16 Faction Control Markers

1 Double-sided Initiative Marker

4 Bags

1 Game board.

How To Setup WarChest

To set up War Chest, players start by drafting several various units into their army through a banner call. Each player begins with a certain number of each of their four different units in their bag. The game board is set up, and each player places their control markers and units according to the initial draft. The game uses a simple but elegant setup, making it accessible even to non-gamers.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Bag-Building

Deck-Building

Pool Building

Grid Movement

Hand Management

Game Objective:

Capture key points on the board by managing units both on the battlefield and in the bag.

Draw three unit coins from the bag each round to perform actions.

Use coins to move, attack, or control locations.

Win the game by placing all of your control markers on the board.

Player Experience

War Chest combines strategic depth with a simple, intuitive design. Players must balance recruiting new troops, offsetting losses, and maneuvering units effectively. The game features a mix of luck and strategy, as the draw of coins can significantly impact gameplay. It encourages tactical decisions and calculated risks, with each unit having unique abilities and interactions. The 2-player mode is particularly praised for its strategic depth, while the 4-player 2v2 mode introduces new collaborative strategies.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

High Replayability: numerous unit combinations and strategies.

Tactile Experience: High-quality components, including weighted poker chips and embroidered bags.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful management of units and resources.

Collaborative Play: The 4-player 2v2 mode adds a new layer of strategy and teamwork.

Cons

Attrition Endgame: Can sometimes feel like a slog, leading to player resignation.

Unit Balance: Some units, like the Berserker and Royal Guard, are considered overpowered.

Board Quality: The board can be prone to not lying flat on the table.

Personal Thoughts on WarChest

War Chest is ideal for fans of strategic war games and abstract strategy. It is highly recommended for those who enjoy games like Stratego or are looking for a game with the strategic depth of chess but without the complexity. The game’s unique blend of luck, strategy, and high-quality components makes it a great addition to any game collection. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate calculated risks and tactical maneuvering.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.