Broadsides & Boarding Parties
- Designer Larry Harris, Jr.
- Publisher Citadel's Game Series (CGS) , Milton Bradley
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Broadsides & Boarding Parties, players command sailing ships in a duel on the sea. Using hand management to plot movements and navigating on a square grid, they attempt to fire broadsides while avoiding enemy fire. When ships collide, the game shifts to boarding parties where players maneuver limited units to capture the opposing captain. The game blends strategic ship positioning with tactical miniature combat.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is designed exclusively for two players interested in historical naval battles and tactical wargames. With a playtime of about 60 minutes, it is a mid-weight game suitable for players aged 10 and up. Some prior experience with tactical board games is helpful but not mandatory.
How It Works
Broadsides & Boarding Parties employs Action Queue and Hand Management to control ship movements. Players move their ships on a Square Grid or via Point-to-Point Movement to gain firing positions. Dice Rolling resolves attacks. If ships collide, the gameplay switches to a boarding phase where players use limited units to try to eliminate the opposing captain.
What Makes It Special
As the third game in Larry Harris' Gamemaster series, it is the only two-player exclusive title in that lineup. It combines classic wargame mechanics like Grid Movement, Dice Rolling, and Hand Management with a pirate theme. Released in 1982, it stands as an early example of tactical miniatures games with a historical maritime setting.
Pro
- Tactical two-player wargame with historical theme
- Combination of Hand Management, Dice Rolling, and Grid Movement
- Compact playtime around 60 minutes
- Part of Larry Harris, Jr.'s notable Gamemaster series
Contra
- Only playable with two players
- No solo mode available
- Moderate complexity requires some learning
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the age of sail, featuring a duel between a Spanish galleon and a pirate ship. The maritime world of the 17th and 18th centuries provides the backdrop for the tactical sea battles.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on planning your ship movements carefully and don't underestimate the boarding phase.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Broadsides & Boarding Parties is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for a quick gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game suits mid-weight players aged 10 and up with some tactical board game experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines classic wargame mechanics with a pirate theme and is the only two-player title in the Gamemaster series.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and two-player limit, it is more suited to experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Hand Management, Action Queue, and boarding combat delivers strategic depth.
Fazit
Broadsides & Boarding Parties is recommended for fans of historical wargames and two-player tactical games who appreciate strategic depth. It offers solid gameplay blending classic mechanics with pirate warfare.
