Wednesday Wargaming

Usually this column covers interesting battles and wars that took place on dates within the last seven days. This time, however, we’re going to have even more fun! That’s right, kiddies, today we’re talking about coup-de-etat! W00t! I knew you’d be happy.

April 11, 1927 saw General Carlos Ibañez declare himself President of Chile. He lasted about four years. What’s important (to us as gamers) isn’t some forgettable dictator of a banana republic. No, it’s the fun of *being* a tinpot dictator of a banana republic. If you’ve never tried it, you simply do not know the fun you are missing.

Games To Set The Mood

I’ve heard about several boardgames that cover the topic, but unfortunately haven’t played any of them. However, I have it on good authority they’re worth playing.

Banana Republic is a card-based game where players try to bluff their opponents, using mechanics of bribery, murder, and intimidation to win.

Revolution is a recent release from Steve Jackson Games. It looks simple and fun.

Kyber Pass games makes a number of interesting ones. Che is one of them.

The above list is nice, but the cream of the crop is hands-down the winner: Tropico 3. A PC game, Tropico 3 is a modern remake of the original classic (skip #2 – it’s terrible). If you’re into PC games (and it’s available on the Xbox 360 if you’re so inclined) this is a must-have for the wannabe banana republican.




By: GladiusMagnus