Brotherhood & Unity

Compass Games, Ediciones MasQueOca, NAC Wargames · Board game · 2020
2–3 · best 3 120–240 min Weight 3.0/5
8.7 rating Ludopedia
8.0 rating BGG
Buy
8.7 rating Ludopedia
8.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're a fan of historical wargames and want to dive into one of the most complex conflicts of the 20th century, Brotherhood & Unity is a fantastic choice! Get ready for tough decisions and deep strategy.

Highlights
  • Deep historical simulation
  • Dynamic card-driven system
  • Fast, fluid combat
  • Essential strategic diplomacy
  • High replayability assured
Keep in mind
  • Heavy, sensitive theme
  • Initial learning curve
  • Best with 3 players
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Embark on an intense historical journey with Brotherhood & Unity, a 2-3 player wargame that delves into the complexities of the Bosnian War (1992-1995). As Churchill once said, the Balkans produce more history than they can consume, and this game captures that essence, portraying the conflicts between Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats, as well as other forces involved. Prepare to relive pivotal events, from the siege of Sarajevo, detailed on a separate map, to the fierce battles for the Posavina corridor and the desperate defense of the Bosniak enclaves.

Gameplay is driven by a strategy card system that simulates historical events and offers various actions, such as movement, attack, strategic redeployment, and diplomacy. Each round, you choose how to use your cards, creating a 'card fog-of-war' that ensures high replayability. Combat is quick and efficient, without complex tables, based on unit values and dice rolls, with terrain modifiers. Each faction's military strength fluctuates historically, with Serbs starting with an advantage and Bosniaks struggling to organize an effective fighting force.

The point-to-point movement system and units representing brigades (1500-2000 soldiers) with distinct combat and movement values require varied tactics. Diplomacy is crucial: you can form pragmatic alliances with former enemies, reflecting historical reality. A 'Strategic Will' system tracks victories and losses, influenced by capturing key regions and units. 'Foreign Attitude' is another vital factor, representing each player's international reputation. Be careful not to generate refugee crises and attract NATO airstrikes! With streamlined rules and a playtime of 2 to 3 hours, Brotherhood & Unity offers a deep and engaging simulation of one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
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Game details

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Cities: Sarajevo (Bosnia) Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina Country: Croatia Country: Serbia Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Decades: The 1990's Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Digital Implementations: VASSAL History: Yugoslav Wars Region: Balkans War Level of Command: Strategic
Publisher Compass Games, Ediciones MasQueOca, NAC Wargames
Designer Tomislav Cipcic
Artist Ilya Kudriashov, Tomislav Cipcic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for Brotherhood & Unity?
A full game of Brotherhood & Unity typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, which is quite reasonable for a strategic wargame of this depth.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 3 players. The 3-player experience is the most complete, as it allows all major factions (Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats) to be actively involved.
What is the complexity level of the game?
Brotherhood & Unity is considered a medium-complexity game (BGG weight of 3.0185/5). Although it's a wargame, the rules are streamlined for faster gameplay, but it still offers strategic depth.
Are the components of good quality?
Yes, the game comes with a 22"x34" mounted map, 260 9/16" counters, 96 strategy cards (divided into 3 decks), 3 player aid cards, 1 rulebook, one ten-sided die, and a sturdy box.
Is prior knowledge of the Bosnian War necessary to play?
It's not strictly necessary, but having some historical knowledge will certainly enrich your experience. The game does an excellent job of simulating the events and dynamics of the conflict, making it a great way to learn more about it.
Does the game have a solo mode?
Although not explicitly a solo game, BGG assigns a solo suitability of 5/10, which indicates that some players may adapt it or find variants to play alone, though it is not the primary focus.
Who is this game recommended for?
It is highly recommended for fans of historical wargames, players who enjoy card-driven games with lots of strategy and diplomacy, and those who don't mind heavier, more complex themes.