Fort Circle Games, known for their engaging historical games, has returned to Kickstarter with a new project, “The Halls of Montezuma.” With 21 days remaining until the campaign ends on July 7, 2023, the project has already received an enthusiastic response, achieving over $23,000 from 353 backers, far surpassing its original goal of $15,000.
“The Halls of Montezuma” propels players back to the tumultuous era of the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). Often overlooked in American history, this short but bloody conflict significantly altered the nation’s geographic, political, and diplomatic landscapes. Designers Kevin Bertram and Gilberto Lopez have meticulously crafted a game that reflects the complexity and far-reaching implications of this war.
As a player, you can take on the role of the American “Polk Administration,” working with Congress to pass treaties and legislation while simultaneously waging war against Mexico. Alternatively, you can embody the diverse forces opposing the Polk Administration, ranging from the Mexican government and army to the American anti-war movement and even Mother Nature herself.
The game employs the 27-card separate event decks system from “The Shores of Tripoli,” enhancing it with two distinct 9-card political decks. The American Political deck features crucial historical treaties and legislation, while the Mexican Political deck introduces various Presidents, each contributing unique benefits to governance.
The game also incorporates end-of-turn event cards and a “El Robot” deck for solitary play, creating a richly nuanced gaming experience. “The Halls of Montezuma” is played over six half-year turns, each turn further broken down into four rounds consisting of American and Mexican Political Phases and Event Phases.
The ultimate goal for the American player is to pass the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which requires capturing Mexico City and amassing at least nine victory stars. The Mexican player can claim victory by capturing Texas, reducing American support for the war to zero, or simply outlasting the Polk Administration.
In keeping with Fort Circle’s commitment to quality, “The Halls of Montezuma” includes:
- A stunning 22″ by 17″ premium mounted map
- A rules booklet and a historical booklet, featuring essays by American professor Amy Greenberg and Mexican scholar Cony Marquez-Sandoval
- Two player aids, a battle board, and a Congressional control display
- Six decks of cards with beautiful period artwork
- Over 200 wooden pieces and 32 dice
- Several fascinating historical documents
The game offers an immersive, educational experience, bringing the Mexican-American War to life while delivering an exciting strategic challenge.