The British Way: Counterinsurgency at the End of Empire

The British Way: Counterinsurgency at the End of Empire

2023
Strategy
3.67 out of 5
8+ people loved this game
Mechanics
Folk on a Map
Complexity
Medium
Duration
60 - 120 minutes
Number of players
2 players
Minimum age
14+ years

The British Way: Counterinsurgency at the End of Empire review

If you're looking for a gateway into the COIN series, "The British Way: Counterinsurgency at the End of Empire" is a fantastic starting point. I, for one, am a huge fan of asymmetric games, and this one really delivers on that front. The four included scenarios, each exploring a different British counterinsurgency campaign, are strategically engaging and tactically demanding. From the communist insurgents in Malaya to the militant nationalists in Kenya, each scenario presents a unique challenge and forces you to adapt your approach.

While the game is less complex than some of the other COIN titles, it still offers a rich and rewarding experience. The streamlined mechanics make it accessible for new players, while still providing enough depth for seasoned COIN veterans to enjoy. The historical context is woven throughout the gameplay, adding another layer of depth and making each victory or defeat feel all the more meaningful.

I've found myself spending a good deal of time after each session dissecting my strategies and comparing the outcomes to actual historical events. It's a great way to learn about these important historical conflicts and how they were shaped by the actions of both sides.

Overall, "The British Way" is a highly enjoyable and thought-provoking game that is sure to appeal to fans of asymmetric wargames and historical simulations. It's a perfect introduction to the COIN series, offering a taste of the strategic depth and historical complexity that makes this series so compelling. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and engaging gaming experience.