Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you love global politics and influence mechanics, Quartermaster General: The Cold War will hook you.
Highlights
- Engaging hand management
- Detailed world map
- Blend of diplomacy and war
Keep in mind
- Moderate learning curve
- Components need translation
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Quartermaster General: The Cold War pushes the series into the nuclear age, putting you in charge of one of three Cold War power blocs: the Soviet Bloc, the Western Bloc, or the Non‑Aligned Bloc. Each bloc can be led by one or two players, allowing 3‑6 participants to share forces and forge temporary alliances to keep the balance of power. The goal is to expand global influence using cards that represent espionage, diplomacy, economic aid and, when all else fails, military force. Cards are played from your hand, demanding solid hand‑management and timing. By controlling areas on the world map you aim for majority or influence in a region, earning victory points and strategic bonuses. However, deploying military force raises global tension, reducing the penalty opponents pay when they unleash weapons of mass destruction – a risk that can flip the game in their favor. The game blends Area Majority/Influence and Hand Management mechanics on a global‑scale board dotted with strategic regions. Playtime runs 90‑120 minutes, with a moderate complexity (weight 2.8/5), perfect for players who love political decisions and tactical clashes without drowning in rules. Components include a detailed map, illustrated cards and influence tokens. If you enjoy historical narratives and seeing how small choices can shift worldwide conflicts, this title will hook you. The need for translated sheets or cards may be a caveat for Portuguese‑speaking groups, but the experience pays off.
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
3
BEST
4
OK
5
OK
6
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Griggling Games, PSC Games
Designer
Ian Brody
Artist
Nicholas Avallone
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,203owners
190wishlist
50want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can join?
3 to 6 players, with each bloc able to be led by one or two people.
What is the typical play time?
Between 90 and 120 minutes, depending on player count and experience.
How complex is the game?
Weight 2.8/5 – moderate complexity, suitable for those with some wargame background.
What components are included?
World map at global scale, illustrated cards, influence tokens and scoring sheets.
Do I need to translate anything for Portuguese groups?
Yes, the scoring sheets and some cards are only in English, so translation may be required.
Can the game be played cooperatively?
The main goal is competitive, but temporary alliances are allowed to keep the balance of power.
What distinguishes the three blocs?
Each bloc has thematic cards and abilities reflecting historical strategies – Soviet focuses on espionage, Western on economic aid, Non‑Aligned on independence movements.
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