The Series

The Battles of the American Revolution is a board game series designed by Mark Miklos and published by GMT Games, focusing on specific battles of the American Revolutionary War. Each volume features tactical, hex-and-counter wargames with regimental-level units, emphasizing historical accuracy and strategic depth. The series includes titles like Saratoga, Brandywine, and the Battle of White Plains, with gameplay lasting 2-6 hours depending on the scenario. Notable for its high-quality components, including mounted maps and thick counters, the series offers replayability through varied scenarios and event cards.

The Game

The Siege of Pensacola (1781) is a tactical wargame from the Battles of the American Revolution series simulating the Spanish siege against British forces in West Florida. Players control either the numerically superior but fragile Spanish army, supported by French allies, or the smaller, fortified British forces with mobile Indian allies, focusing on decisions around siege works and raids.

The Spanish player must decide whether to prioritize capturing the Red Cliffs Fort to secure reinforcements or immediately build siege gun redoubts for bombardment, with initial forces determined by a unique setup phase where units face British cannon fire. The British player employs special raiding rules to harass Spanish forces, disrupt siege construction, and erode morale, aiming to protect three key forts until the Spanish coup de main. I must admit, that the game dynamic setup and tense balance of offense and defense create high replayability, with each side facing critical choices to achieve victory.

Let us then look at this beautiful game and its components:

Enjoy!