17(21) Kriegspiel card game
- Designer Andrea Sbragia
- Publisher Adraeth's Games
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 17(21), you take the role of army generals during the Age of Reason, commanding troops in strategic battles. Players draft their armies and doctrines, then use card-driven actions to maneuver, issue orders, and attack. Combat is resolved without dice, using the game of "21" (Blackjack). The goal is to control more battlefield ground than your opponent by the end of the battle day.
Who Is This Game For?
This is a strategy game for two players aged 14 and up, classified as a medium-weight tactical card game. With an estimated 60-minute playtime, it suits players who enjoy focused head-to-head battles and have some experience with wargames or card drafting games.
How It Works
Players begin by drafting army cards openly, followed by drafting doctrine cards that shape their combat style. During battle rounds, players use Campaign / Battle Card Driven actions to move units, activate doctrines, or attack enemies. Combat resolution uses the "21" card game mechanics instead of dice. Victory depends on controlling key areas at battle's end.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Andrea Sbragia and released in 2018, 17(21) is part of the Gunpowder Strategy series by Avalanche Press. It uniquely blends Battle Card Driven mechanics with Open Drafting and offers a portable, dice-free wargaming experience evoking miniatures battles from the Age of Reason.
Pro
- Tactical depth through Open Drafting of army and doctrine cards
- Dice-free combat resolution using the game of "21"
- Compact 60-minute playtime for a tactical game
- Strong thematic integration in the Age of Reason setting
Contra
- Only designed for two players, no solo mode available
- Requires some experience with tactical card games
- Not suitable for younger players under 14 years
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the Age of Reason, reflecting military campaigns along the Danube and Low Countries, capturing the strategic mindset of generals in that historical period.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on drafting a balanced army and doctrines that complement each other well.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
17(21) is strictly a two-player game and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, making it a concise tactical experience.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at players aged 14+ with some familiarity with tactical card and wargames.
How does this compare to similar games?
17(21) uniquely combines Battle Card Driven mechanics with Open Drafting and resolves combat without dice, using the game of "21".
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 14 and moderate complexity, it is better suited to experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Campaign / Battle Card Driven and Open Drafting mechanics creates tactical depth and variability.
Fazit
17(21) is recommended for two players interested in tactical, card-driven combat games lasting about an hour. Fans of historical wargames will appreciate its blend of strategy and thematic depth without relying on dice.
