13 Days: The Cuban Missile Crisis, 1962
- Designer Asger Aleksandrov Granerud , Daniel Skjold Pedersen
- Publisher Jolly Roger Games , Ultra PRO , Cranio Creations , Frosted Games , Gemenot
- Illustration Jacob Walker
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Experience the tense Cold War atmosphere of the Cuban Missile Crisis in about 45 minutes. Players take the roles of John F. Kennedy or Nikita Khrushchev, managing their hand of cards and making tough decisions between gaining prestige and avoiding escalation. The game features Hand Management, Area Majority, and Campaign Card Driven mechanics to deliver a focused two-player strategy experience.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed specifically for two players, 13 Days is a medium-weight strategy game suitable for those with limited time who want a deep thematic experience. No prior knowledge of the crisis is required, making it accessible to strategy enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
How It Works
Players manage their hand of cards to execute actions, while Advantage Tokens and Area Majority mechanics influence political and military control. Campaign cards drive the game flow and trigger dynamic events, and End Game Bonuses reward strategic choices throughout the game.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Asger Aleksandrov Granerud and Daniel Skjold Pedersen, 13 Days was nominated in 2016 for multiple awards including the Golden Geek Best 2-Player Board Game. It offers a historically rich yet fast-paced alternative to Twilight Struggle with a focus on the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Awards
2018
2016
- 2016 Cardboard Republic Striker Laurel — Nominated
- 2016 Guldbrikken Best Adult Game — Nominated
Pro
- Compact, intense two-player game lasting about 45 minutes
- Historically grounded theme of the Cuban Missile Crisis
- Mechanics include Hand Management, Area Majority, Campaign Card Driven
- Multiple award nominations in 2016
Contra
- Strictly for two players
- Requires some strategic experience
- Theme may be less accessible for younger or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis during the Cold War, with players embodying the leaders of the USA and Soviet Union competing for political and military control.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on efficiently managing your cards while limiting your opponent's options without escalating the crisis too quickly.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 13 Days is designed exclusively for two players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game takes about 45 minutes, making it a compact two-player experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is a medium-weight strategy title requiring some learning, but it is accessible to newcomers interested in the theme.
How does this compare to similar games?
13 Days offers a similar Cold War theme as Twilight Struggle but is shorter and focuses specifically on the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Is this suitable for families?
With a recommended age of 10 and strategic complexity, it is better suited for older children and adults rather than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Hand Management with Campaign Card Driven and Area Majority mechanics creates a dynamic political and military contest.
Fazit
13 Days is recommended for players seeking an intense, thematic two-player game with a manageable playtime. It suits those interested in Cold War politics and strategic depth.
