Central America
- Designer James H. McQuaid
- Publisher Victory Games (I)
- Illustration Rosaria Baldari , Ted Koller , James Talbot
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Central America offers a comprehensive simulation of modern land and air combat combining conventional and guerrilla warfare. Players can choose the game's intensity and detail level. The game includes four introductory scenarios, five intermediate scenarios for a night's play, and seven campaign scenarios covering historical and hypothetical conflicts in Central America.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced gamers and experts who enjoy complex two-player wargames with long playing times (about 360 minutes). It is not a family game and requires patience and prior experience with scenario-based strategy and simulation games, suitable from age 12.
How It Works
Central America uses mechanics like dice rolling, grid movement on a hexagon grid, and movement points to simulate battlefield maneuvers and combat. Players select scenarios of varying complexity, ranging from introductory to full campaigns. The game emphasizes realistic simulation and dynamic interaction between conventional and guerrilla warfare.
What Makes It Special
Designed by James H. McQuaid, Central America won the 1987 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Post-World War II Board Game. It is a deep wargame specifically made for two players, notable for blending modern warfare with scenario-driven gameplay.
Awards
- 1987 Charles S. Roberts Best Post-World War II Board Game — Winner
Pro
- Comprehensive simulation of modern land and air combat
- Flexible detail level via multiple scenarios
- Winner of the 1987 Charles S. Roberts Award
- Designed specifically for two players
Contra
- Very long playing time (approx. 6 hours)
- Complex rules require patience and experience
- Not suited for families or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game covers the Cold War and political crisis in Central America during the 1980s, focusing on US military operations and regional conflicts.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with the four introductory scenarios to learn core mechanics before tackling more complex campaigns.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Central America is designed exclusively for two players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 360 minutes, including setup, making it an extended session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex wargames and simulations.
How does this compare to similar games?
Central America uniquely combines conventional and guerrilla warfare in a dynamic simulation for two players.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is not suitable for families with children under 12 or casual gamers.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of dice rolling, hexagon grid movement, and movement points enables realistic tactical simulation.
Fazit
Central America is recommended for enthusiasts of demanding two-player wargames focused on modern military conflicts. Its long playing time and complexity make it less suitable for casual players.
