1930!
- Designer Martin James Howard
- Publisher (Web published)
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1930!, you lead one of the major powers of the interwar period and influence neutral minor countries like Belgium or Ireland. Players write orders secretly that are executed simultaneously, requiring tactical planning and negotiation skills. Between turns, alliances can be formed or broken. Conflicts are resolved by comparing military strength and a percentage roll, creating a dynamic and interactive experience.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players who enjoy complex negotiation and bluffing elements. With a fixed player count of five, it is ideal for groups of exactly that size. The roughly 120-minute playtime demands patience and strategic depth, making it a game for enthusiasts rather than families. Prior experience with diplomatic strategy games is advantageous.
How It Works
1930! features Area Movement, Player Elimination, and Simultaneous Action Selection mechanics. Each player controls a major power, issuing secret orders for military moves and political actions executed simultaneously. Political points allow influencing minor neutral countries to gain their support or passage rights. Combat outcomes depend on military strength and a probability roll.
What Makes It Special
Martin James Howard designed 1930! as an evolution of Diplomacy, adding aircraft and political influence. Its focus on simultaneous orders and political power creates a unique mix of negotiation and strategy. While it has no awards, it remains a niche classic among fans of political strategy games with fixed player counts.
Pro
- Unique combination of political influence and military strategy
- Simultaneous order submission encourages tension and planning
- Fixed player count allows focused group play
- Niche classic for fans of Diplomacy-like games
Contra
- Only playable with exactly 5 players
- No solo or smaller player variants
- 120-minute duration requires patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the interwar period focusing on the major powers Great Britain, Germany, France, Russia, and Italy, alongside neutral countries like Spain and Belgium. It blends political and military power in 1930s Europe.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Balance military and political actions and actively engage in negotiation phases to form alliances.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 1930! requires exactly 5 players and is not playable solo.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 120 minutes, making it an extended play session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with diplomatic strategy or negotiation games is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
1930! expands on Diplomacy by adding political power and influence over neutral countries.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of simultaneous action selection and political influence on neutral countries defines the gameplay.
Fazit
1930! is well-suited for players seeking a political strategy game with negotiation and a fixed five-player setup. It requires experience and patience, but is not recommended for casual or family groups.
