I really hope you get a chance to dive deeper into COIN. They are fabulous games-the core system is just so good but the way they manage to make the game fit whichever era it is portraying is incredible. My favourite is probably Pendragon followed closely by Fire in the Lake but you honestly can't go wrong - just choose whichever historical event that appeals most to you. Getting the right group is essential (they aren't for everyone) so fingers crossed for you I know you'll love them.

Cody I totally agree with you. This game was absolutely fantastic, and if anyone really wants to give COIN games a try you will not go wrong with this one.

Oh my goodness, your first COIN?! For real?! I am surprised but also extremely pleased that you've played this! I got hooked on COIN about a year and a half ago and I ended up getting every single one in the series, I can't get enough of them. Welcome to the world of COIN! Wait until you try Fire in the Lake. You have to try it, but make sure your first time is with someone who knows it, to show you the ropes. And give yourself a full day for it! You'll probably want to go with Cuba Libre as your next foray into the series though, it will feel very similar to TBW but not too intimidating as the operations are relatively simple and the map is limited in options, only 13 spaces. In any case, super happy to know that you've played this.

Thanks Cody!

TBW is actually a very reasonable entry-level COIN game: there are 4 campaigns, each with their own distinct style; they offer a spectrum of complexity across the scenarios (without ever rising to too complex); the playtimes are very reasonable and each one is accompanied by historical notes that provide a lot of interesting background. This is also the first "Multipack" product from GMT, and they have already announced the next entry in the series, The Guerrilla Generation.

Liberty or Death is a good one, curious to check this one out. Mostly because of the topic and what it explores. IT being a two player kind of lowers my enthousiasm.

Was wondering when TDG would tackle a COIN game. Glad you enjoyed it!

I was excited for this one until I found out it has no dedicated solo bot. Seems odd considering the other titles in the series have them. If I had a frequent opponent I’d grab it especially with the 4 maps and an expansion coming at some point.

Another great review, Cody! By the way, I visit Boise for an extended time in the winter and summer (when I'm not teaching) and I love historically themed games. If you want to game some time, let me know.

A full joke at the end! Nice!

I just ordered Colonial Twilight because, apparently, I'm building a pyramid with the boxes of games I never get a chance to play. I just couldn't help it, though; I'm always interested in games, books, and shows involving the French Foreign Legion.

If you are wading into COIN, I waded in with my sons with Root…and didn’t know it was a COIN game.

I love your jokes.

This looks fun but I have reservations about the series. I tried to start COIN with the Liberty or Death one and I just couldn't cope with the rules I found it too complex and just gave up. I think the only way I could learn COIN would be to play it with someone who is already experienced.

Have you tried Andean Abyss on Rally the Troops!

Andean Abyss is on RallyTheTroops .. if online play suits you