Hill of Doves - The First Anglo-Boer War 1880-1881

Hill of Doves covers the First Anglo-Boer War (1880–1881), a colonial conflict between the British Empire and the South African Republic (Transvaal). The game focuses on the decisive phase of the war, characterized by a series of British defeats against highly mobile Boer commandos who used the terrain to their advantage.

The title refers to key hilltop engagements where small Boer forces successfully resisted or defeated larger British columns operating in difficult terrain.

Game system
The game uses an operational hex-based system focused on maneuver, terrain control, and small but decisive engagements.

Units typically represent companies, detachments, or columns. The system emphasizes mobility, visibility limits, ambushes, and logistical constraints faced by British forces operating far from their bases.

Boer forces benefit from superior mobility and effective long-range fire, while British forces must secure routes of advance and avoid tactical traps.

Included scenarios

The March to Conflict
Transvaal, 1880
Rising tensions and early skirmishes between British columns and Boer commandos.

Laing’s Nek
January 1881
A British attempt to force the Laing’s Nek pass, defended by Boer forces occupying high ground.

Schuinshoogte (Ingogo River)
February 1881
An ambush and engagement during a British withdrawal under pressure.

Majuba Hill
February 1881
The decisive battle of the war, where Boer forces assault and dislodge British positions on a key hill.

Objective
The British player must advance through Boer territory, secure key positions, and maintain lines of communication under constant harassment.

The Boer player must exploit mobility, terrain advantages, and ambush tactics to inflict losses and halt the British advance.

Players
2 players

Playing time
Approximately 2 to 6 hours per scenario.

Complexity
Medium

Accessible system while still reflecting the tactical challenges of 19th-century colonial warfare.

Game scale
Units: detachments, companies, columns
Turn: several days to one week depending on scenario
Terrain: hills, valleys, colonial roads

Replayability
Multiple standalone scenarios
Strong asymmetry between sides
High terrain importance
Variable engagements and ambush outcomes
Historical short but decisive battles

Components (indicative)
Map(s)
Counters for British and Boer forces
Scenario booklet
Game-specific rules