We Are Coming, Nineveh (2023) Board Game

We Are Coming, Nineveh is a board game that focuses on modern warfare and military tactics. Set in the context of the battle for Mosul in Iraq, players take on the role of either the Iraqi Security Forces or the Islamic State fighters. The game is designed to simulate the complexities and challenges of urban warfare in a contemporary setting.

Game Components of We Are Coming, Nineveh

Map: A mounted map depicting the urban geography of west Mosul, including the Old City.

Blocks: Representing units of Daesh fighters or Iraqi Army battalions.

Cards: Capability cards for special abilities, units, and support; Event cards for tactical vignettes and collateral damage.

Booklets: Rules book and Design Notes book.

Markers: Few cardboard markers for tracking various game elements.

How To Setup We Are Coming, Nineveh

Setup involves each player selecting operational priorities and additional capabilities. The Iraqi security forces (ISF) player chooses from a deck of cards to determine their strategy, while the Daesh player sets up units on the map with flexibility in placement. Players also select victory determinants from an identical deck of three cards, which will be scored on three tracks on the edge of the map: time, casualties, and collateral damage.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Phases: Support Phase, Movement Phase, and Combat Phase.

Support Phase: Supply considerations and activating Capability cards.

Movement Phase: Moving units with area movement mechanics.

Combat Phase: Engaging in combat with blocks and event cards.

Objective: The ISF aims to liberate west Mosul by eliminating Daesh units, while minimizing casualties and collateral damage. Daesh aims to resist and inflict maximum damage.

Event Cards: Can trigger at any time, introducing tactical vignettes, moral choices, or collateral damage.

Capability Cards: Allow players to purchase special abilities and units before the game starts.

Player Experience

We Are Coming, Nineveh offers a deeply immersive and realistic experience, particularly for those interested in wargames and military strategy. The game’s design ensures low complexity while maintaining a rich and detailed treatment of the battle. Each game is unique due to the extensive options in capability cards and event cards, providing high replay value. Players must balance strategic planning with tactical execution, facing challenging decisions that reflect the historical context.

Pros

High Replayability: Numerous capability and event cards ensure no two games are the same.

Historical Accuracy: Detailed and realistic portrayal of the battle for west Mosul.

Balanced Complexity: Easy to learn but rich in strategy.

Moral and Operational Choices: Adds a layer of realism with difficult decisions.

Cons

Sensitive Topic: The game deals with a sensitive and recent historical conflict, which may be off-putting for some players.

Initial Overwhelm: The variety of capability cards can be overwhelming at first.

Limited Player Count: Designed for 1-2 players, which may limit group play.

Personal Thoughts on We Are Coming, Nineveh

This game is ideal for wargame enthusiasts and those interested in military history and strategy. It offers a unique blend of operational planning and tactical execution, making it engaging and challenging. The game’s focus on historical accuracy and the inclusion of moral and operational choices add depth and realism. However, due to its sensitive topic and complexity, it may not be suitable for all players, especially those looking for more casual or family-friendly games.

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.