When you start looking for games which are aesthetically
pleasing few fit the bill more than the range of wood block war games.
There is something about the wood blocks which reminds of old
games, of a time when wood components were the norm, and were a sign of
craftsmanship.
Columbia Games are certainly at the forefront of such games
these days, and The War of 1812, and Quebec 1759 have both been highly
recommended both as having strong Canadian content, and the quality and game
play of the wood block system.
For those liking fantasy gaming, role players familiar with
Dungeons & Dragon, card players loving Magic: The Gathering, and others,
looking for a change of pace, I'd strongly recommend Wizard Kings.
Wizard Kings is another wood block offering from Columbia Games.
As a refresher, the
block system makes for a relatively simple approach to a wargame. Rather than
using traditional counters to represent units on the map the game uses wooden
blocks that stand upright with unit details only shown on one side. The
result is basically secret troop deployment which is reflective of the reality
on a battlefield. Not knowing what the opponent is doing strategically gives
this game a feel of realism using a rather simple mechanic.
Now of course in Wizard Kings reality is put on the back-burner
as elves, dwarves and other fantasy races take to the battle field.
By entering into the rich world of fantasy designers Tom and
Grant Dalgliesh really broaden the possibilities of the game type.
To begin with they have the ability to create multiple armies,
and that means allowing from two-to-seven players to be involved. That changes
the dynamic of the wargame.
The same goes for the modular maps which can be aligned in a
variety of ways, since it's not trying to mimic the real world.
The mix of various fantasy race armies with the modular board
really expands the re-playability of Wizard Kings.
There are a lot of scenarios to explore when you think of the
options seven players and a changeable map offer.
Wizard Kings won't be for those seeking to relive historic
battles, which is a huge appeal for most wargamers, but at the same time it
opens board wargaming to a new audience, and it does it well.
As a fantasy fan this one won me over in a hurry. Wizard Kings
is highly recommended.
Check out this offering at www.columbiagames.com
If anyone is interested in this game, or other boardgames feel
free to contact calmardan@sasktel.net
-- Review appeared
in Yorkton This Week newspaper Feb 15, 2012 - Yorkton, SK. Canada
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