Won by the Sword (2014) Board Game

Won by the Sword is a historical wargame set in the Pike and Shot era, focusing on the conflicts of the 17th century. The game allows players to recreate battles and campaigns from this turbulent period in European history, where armies composed of musketeers, pikemen, and cavalry clashed on the battlefield.

Game Components of Won by the Sword

Game board

Unit counters

Terrain tiles

Command cards

Rulebook

Models and miniatures (supplied unpainted and may require assembly or preparation).

How To Setup Won by the Sword

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, arranging the terrain tiles according to the scenario, and distributing the unit counters and command cards to the players. The specific setup can vary depending on the scenario being played, with detailed instructions provided in the rulebook.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Maneuvering Forces: Players focus on maneuvering their forces to gain strategic advantages.

Command Cards: Use of command cards to influence battles and movement.

Terrain Effects: Terrain tiles affect unit movements and combat outcomes.

Low Rules Complexity: Simple rules allow for quick learning and focus on strategic decisions.

Game Objective: The objective is to defeat the opponent’s forces or achieve specific scenario goals.

Player Experience

Won by the Sword offers a engaging experience with a balance between simplicity and strategic depth. Players need to make tactical decisions quickly, as the game’s low complexity allows for fast-paced gameplay. The game is suitable for both new and experienced players, as it does not overwhelm with complex rules but still requires thoughtful maneuvering.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Low rules complexity makes it accessible to new players.

Strategic Depth: Despite simple rules, the game requires tactical thinking.

Historical Theme: Appeals to those interested in the Musket & Pike era.

Replayability: Different scenarios and command cards offer varied gameplay experiences.

Cons

Unpainted Models: Models are supplied unpainted, which may be a drawback for some players.

Assembly Required: Some components may require assembly before play.

Limited Complexity: May not be challenging enough for experienced players looking for complex gameplay mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Won by the Sword

Won by the Sword is ideal for players who enjoy historical warfare games without the burden of complex rules. It’s a great introduction for newcomers to the genre and also offers enough depth for veterans to enjoy strategic play. The game’s focus on maneuvering forces and using command cards effectively makes it a fun and challenging experience. However, those seeking highly complex gameplay or pre-painted miniatures might find it less appealing.

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