Bloody April: The Battle of Shiloh, 1862
Bloody April: The Battle of Shiloh, 1862 at your next game night?
Add Bloody April: The Battle of Shiloh, 1862 to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Richard H. Berg
- Publisher SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Alonzo Chappel , Redmond Aksel Simonsen
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You experience a grand tactical simulation of the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862, set at the regimental level with hexagon grid maps. Each turn represents 20 minutes of combat, and players command infantry, cavalry, and artillery units with realistic strength values. The detailed maps and counters reflect the historical battle in Tennessee.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced wargamers and history enthusiasts aged 12 and up. Due to its complexity and very long playtime of about 20 hours, it suits expert players and long gaming sessions. Prior experience with tactical wargames and hex grids is recommended.
How It Works
The core mechanic is the hexagon grid that structures movement and combat. Players maneuver regiments, cavalry, and artillery counters representing real unit strengths. Each turn simulates 20 minutes of battle, requiring tactical positioning and coordinated attacks to succeed.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Richard H. Berg, Bloody April is part of the Great Battles of the American Civil War series and uses the award-winning system from Terrible Swift Sword. Originally published by SPI in 1979, it is a classic American Civil War tactical simulation.
Pro
- Historically detailed Battle of Shiloh simulation
- Hexagon grid enables precise tactical movement
- Part of the renowned Great Battles of the American Civil War series
- High strategic depth at regimental level
Contra
- Very long playtime of around 20 hours
- Complexity requires experience and patience
- Not suited for casual gamers
Setting & atmosphere
The game simulates the Battle of Shiloh during the American Civil War in April 1862, focusing on detailed troop movements and engagements in Tennessee.
Tips for beginners
Start with simpler wargames to get familiar with hex grids and regimental tactics before playing Bloody April.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
The game is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A session lasts about 1200 minutes, roughly 20 hours, requiring long play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex wargames and hexagon grid mechanics is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Bloody April uses the proven system from Terrible Swift Sword and simulates the Battle of Shiloh at regimental scale with high detail.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and playtime, it is less suitable for family gaming.
What mechanic makes it special?
The hexagon grid mechanic allows precise tactical movements and realistic combat simulation.
Fazit
Bloody April is a worthwhile choice for players interested in historically detailed wargames with deep strategy and long playtime. It demands patience and thoughtful planning over many hours.
Bloody April: The Battle of Shiloh, 1862 at your next game night?
Add Bloody April: The Battle of Shiloh, 1862 to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Bloody April: The Battle of Shiloh, 1862 to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
