Broadsides & Boarding Parties

Broadsides & Boarding Parties, the inaugural title of Milton Bradley's Gamemaster line, pits two sail‑ship captains against each other in a tactical duel. The game is split into two distinct phases. First, players use a deck of cards to program their ships' movement, trying to line up a broadside that unleashes a volley of cannonballs while evading return fire. This "broadsides" segment is essentially a positioning puzzle, with each card representing a step or turn on a square grid. When the vessels collide, the second phase – "boarding parties" – kicks in. Players line their ships side‑by‑side and send their pirate miniatures onto the opponent's deck, aiming to kill the rival captain. Only a limited number of units may move each turn, demanding careful planning to trap and capture the foe. Components shine: each player gets a detailed plastic ship with removable masts, a full crew of pirate figures, cannons, and a captain miniature. The colorful board depicts a period‑appropriate maritime map, enhancing the historical feel. While the original 1982 edition came with paper maps and cardboard counters, later releases introduced the plastic models we see today. The blend of mechanics – action queue, dice rolling, grid movement, and hand management – keeps the game light (weight 1.8/5) and approachable, perfect for a 60‑minute session packed with naval strategy without overwhelming complexity. It’s a great fit for two friends who love pirates, tactical warfare, and detailed miniatures.