North Channel: Naval Conflict of the American Revolutionary War (Game Release!)

The 4th of July, also known as Independence Day, is quickly approaching here in America. I've been doing a lot of reading about the history of my country, and specifically about the conflicts that led to the founding of the U.S.A. I never realized just how interesting 18th century America was and am quickly seeing how it could become one of my favorite topics for wargaming. Of course, as I look back as elementary school, the only history courses I can even remember being excited about and truly interested in was the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War. There is something about delving deep into one's own history that has such deep meaning. 

As a result, I decided this year to try my hand at designing my own historical (within reason) print and play war game (with roll-and-write elements, as always). I've always loved naval games, so it only made sense to try and find a conflict that took place on the seas.

The end result is North Channel: Naval Conflict of the American Revolution!

On April 24th, 1778 along The North Channel between Ireland and Scotland --Captain John Paul Jones of the USS Ranger set out to seize and capture a Royal Navy ship just outside the town of  Carrickfergus. That ship was the HMS Drake, captained by George Burden. Jones immediately had the upper hand, in both firepower and maneuverability. The Ranger was built as a warship while the Drake was simply a merchant ship outfitted with 4-pound cannons. Not to mention, Jones had the upper hand in knowledge of the enemy ship, given to him by an area local Lieut. Dobbs. During the ensuing attack, the Ranger inflicted devastating damage to her opponent--killing its captain in the process. The ships fought in close range combat, but never close enough for boarding actions. In the end, Jones succeeded in capturing the Drake and as a result, gained international fame.

North Channel is a simple table-top “postcard” wargame of ship-to-ship combat for two players. One player will take on the role of the American ship the USS Ranger, while the other takes on the role of the HMS Drake. The American player will have the upper hand with higher firepower, a larger crew, and a sturdier hull (as it was historically). The Britsh player will have to be smart (and lucky) in order to outmaneuver their enemy, and not succumb to the USS Ranger.

Will you be able to change history?

Pick up your copy for FREE just in time for the 4th of July from the Wargame Vault. Please feel free to add a small donation to help me keep making games and get better at making them. This offer is only for a limited time. After that, the game will be available for $5.99.  

Also, if you end up liking the game, keep an eye out for the full retail version making its way to The Game Crafter soon.