A Most Fearful Sacrifice: The Three Days of Gettysburg

Flying Pig Games, Tiny Battle Publishing · Board game · 2022
2–4 · best 2 60–4320 min Weight 3.1/5
9.0 rating Ludopedia
8.6 rating BGG
Buy
9.0 rating Ludopedia
8.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

For historical wargamers who crave a massive board: Gettysburg at its most tactical and immersive.

Highlights
  • Epic scale with streamlined rules
  • Nail-biting tactical choices
  • Unpredictable historical events
Keep in mind
  • Language-dependent (needs translation)
  • LONG playtime (up to 72h!)
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About the game

What you do in a play session

In *A Most Fearful Sacrifice*, you relive the three decisive days of the Battle of Gettysburg, the turning point of the American Civil War. With a massive board (15 sq ft!) and 526 pieces, this two-player tactical wargame throws you into the fray—from Buford’s cavalry’s opening shots to the bloody finale. The *Black Swan* system (an evolution of the acclaimed *Blind Swords*) streamlines rules without sacrificing depth: Corps-level activations speed up play, but tactical choices—like prioritizing divisions—keep tension high. Cards replace random chits, and the three 'FOWs' (*Fog*, *Friction*, *Fortunes of War*) ensure neither Lee nor Meade ever has full control. Expect unpredictable historical events (those game-changing 'black swans') and hours of nail-biting strategy. Pro tip: Don’t underestimate Cemetery Hill!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Country: USA Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: VASSAL History: Battle of Gettysburg Players: Two-Player Only Games Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Series: Blind Swords System States: Pennsylvania War Level of Command: Tactical
Publisher Flying Pig Games, Tiny Battle Publishing
Designer Hermann Luttmann
Artist José Ramón Faura, Mark Maritato, Rick Barber

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,177owners
326wishlist
69want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How long is a typical game?
Scenario-dependent: from 1h (isolated engagements) to 72h for the full 3-day battle (yes, it’s a weekend project!).
Is it language-dependent?
Yes, all cards and manuals are in English. Non-English speakers will need translations or fluency.
Good for wargame newbies?
Not the simplest, but the *Black Swan* system is more approachable than most tactical titles. Try 1-2 hex-based wargames first.
Player count?
Best at 2 (Union vs. Confederacy). Rules don’t support more, but house rules could allow 'command teams' per side.
How does it differ from other Gettysburg games?
Tactical focus (you manage divisions, not armies) and 'black swan' events—rare twists that mirror historical turning points.

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