Brothers at War: 1862 - Tactical War Game

Brothers at War: 1862 is a fast, tactical wargame that explores brigade command during the American Civil War. The game uses units such as regiments, batteries, and companies of skirmishers. This is a quadrigame, or set of four games, each with a full-size 22×34-inch game map covering 1862 battles, including Antietam, South Mountain, Mill Springs, and Bloody Valverde.

Here come the rebels! It’s a crisis year for the nation, with invading armies marching into Maryland, West Virginia, and New Mexico.

Key Features of Brothers at War: 1862

• Fast-Paced Gameplay: The game is designed to be played quickly, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced players.
• Simple Game Mechanics: The command rules are simple and abstract. There are no combat results tables; instead, six-sided dice are used to determine combat results.
• Chit Drawing: Brigades are activated via chit drawing, allowing their constituent units to move and fight individually.
• Maximum Visibility: Stacking is limited to two units per hex, and large 1.5-inch hexes allow two 3/4-inch units to fit side by side, preventing information from being hidden.
• Unit Distinctions: The game distinguishes between formed and unformed infantry, deployed and limbered artillery, and mounted and dismounted cavalry.
• Pass-through fire: Unit disposition in adjacent hexes can trigger pass-through fire, simulating enfilade fire or fire on compressed lines, which are dangerous situations for Civil War units.
• Battle Cards: Battle Cards introduce an element of uncertainty and excitement into the game, making each match unique and unpredictable.
• Reserves and Losses: Unique distance displays track each brigade's reserves and losses. When a unit's reserves are depleted, it becomes exhausted and risks breaking.
• Four Battles: The game explores how the system can be adapted to a variety of Civil War battlefields. Battles include the brutal cornfield of Antietam, the mountainous terrain of Fox’s Gap, the muddy fields of Mill Springs, Kentucky, and an all-cavalry Texan brigade confronting Union regulars at Valverde.

Tips for Storing and Collecting Brothers at War: 1862

To ensure the game and its components remain in excellent condition, store them in a dry and cool environment. Keep game cards and units in protective sleeves to prevent wear and tear. When collecting the game, make sure to have an organized place to store all components so you can easily find them for your next game session.