LunarShadow Designs

Who is it by? Alex White of Plane Sailing Games

What’s it about? World War 1 has engulfed Europe. As it takes its toll on those involved letters fly back and forth between the soldiers and their loved ones. Over the course of the game, relationships are built and broken while the soldier faces the constant threat of death on the front lines.

What system does it use? The game is built around a simple card draw mechanic focused on the individual suits. Should either player draw two spades the relationship dies, either through a breakup or the death of the soldier during one of the many pushes to gain the smallest of advantages over the enemy.

Why should you try it? While the mechanics of the game are lightweight the tone and impact are not. The Great War devastated Europe and games of Love & Barbed Wire have the potential to be heavy-hitting, emotional rollercoasters. Contained within the pages of the book is a wide range of detailed historical information, including examples of real letters sent to and from the front. This is as much an educational tool as it is a game and one that would be as suited for use in the classroom as it is on the shelves of gamers with an interest in the era.

Where can you get it? You can purchase Love & Barbed Wire in PDF and Print on Demand formats from drivethruRPG or in PDF from itch.io.