Pax Baltica: Great Northern War 1700-1721

In 1700, a young Karl XII ascends to the Swedish throne, and his rivals in the Baltic Sea waste no time: Denmark, Saxony-Poland, and Peter the Great's Russia form an alliance to challenge Swedish hegemony. Thus begins the Great Northern War, a conflict that ravaged Northern and Eastern Europe for over two decades, redrawing the geopolitical map. PAX BALTICA is a two-player wargame that simulates this entire epic period, from 1700 to 1721. Initially released in a limited edition by Three Crowns Game Productions, the game has been enhanced and re-released by GMT Games, maintaining the essence of the original designers. The map covers a vast area, from Norway to Turkey, Saxony to Finland, and units are represented by wooden blocks that keep their strength and identity hidden, allowing for bluffs and cunning strategies. Action points are crucial, used for movement, reconnaissance, or even trying your luck on the National Politics Table. The rules are straightforward, covering lines of communication, foraging, and lengthy sieges, all to immerse you in the era. The combat system is dynamic, reflecting the aggressive Swedish tactics that secured early victories. But beware: unexpected historical events, such as plagues or Russian military reforms, can turn the tide at any moment. PAX BALTICA offers four scenarios, from a quick skirmish to the full 21-year campaign, ensuring that each game is a new story. Can you preserve the Swedish empire or pave the way for Russia's rise?