Zulus on the Ramparts!: The Battle of Rorke’s Drift – Second Edition (2009) Board Game

Zulus on the Ramparts! is a historical wargame that simulates the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, which took place during the Anglo-Zulu War in in 2009. The game puts players in the shoes of the British defenders of the mission station at Rorke’s Drift as they face wave after wave of Zulu warriors. Designed by Joseph Miranda and published by Victory Point Games, this second edition of the game was released in 2009.

Game Components of Zulus on the Ramparts!: The Battle of Rorke’s Drift – Second Edition

Four-piece board

Zulu ibutho (regiment) standees and their unit/health tokens

Day/night tokens

Additional regiment and barrier tokens

Low water/ammunition markers

Event and movement chits

Volley cards

Heroes with special abilities

“Zulu Victory” marker

How To Setup Zulus on the Ramparts!: The Battle of Rorke’s Drift – Second Edition

Setting up the game takes less than five minutes. It involves assembling the four-piece board, placing the Zulu ibutho standees and their tokens at the start of the tracks corresponding to the Zulu “fighting bull-buffalo” formation, and positioning the “Zulu Victory” marker. Additional tokens such as day/night tokens, regiment and barrier tokens, and low water/ammunition markers are placed in their respective spots or off to one side.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Defend the Rorke’s Drift mission station with about 150 British soldiers against thousands of Zulu warriors until either the Zulus are repelled or Lord Chelmsford’s relief column arrives.

Mechanics:
– Draw and resolve event and movement chits each turn
– Manage resources (water, ammunition)
– Construct barricades and form a reserve platoon
– Utilize heroes with special abilities
– Combat rolls with dice, affected by day/night conditions and other events

Player Experience

Playing **Zulus on the Ramparts** is a fast-paced and challenging experience that captures the tension and complexity of the historical battle. Players must make strategic decisions quickly, managing resources and responding to random events that can either aid or hinder their defense. The game creates a sense of urgency and desperation, with moments of hope emerging through specific chits and actions. The night phase introduces additional challenges, such as a -1 penalty to combat rolls unless a building is on fire, which illuminates the battlefield.

Pros

Quick Setup: Initial setup takes less than five minutes.

Engaging Mechanics: Event and movement chits create dynamic and unpredictable gameplay.

Strategic Depth: Players must manage resources, construct defenses, and utilize heroes effectively.

Historical Accuracy: The game accurately simulates the historical Battle of Rorke’s Drift.

Sense of Urgency: The game maintains a high level of tension and urgency throughout.

Cons

Complex Rulebook: The rulebook lacks a single-page guide for event chits, requiring frequent references.

Luck Factor: The random draw of chits introduces a significant luck factor, which can be frustrating.

Limited Player Control: Some events are beyond the player’s control, adding to the challenge but also the frustration.

Personal Thoughts on Zulus on the Ramparts!: The Battle of Rorke’s Drift – Second Edition

This game is ideal for fans of wargames and tower defense who appreciate historical themes and challenging gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy strategic decision-making under pressure and can handle a degree of randomness. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking a completely deterministic experience, it offers a unique and immersive simulation of one of history’s most famous battles.

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