Rebel Tide

Rebel Tide: The American Civil War is a strategic-level wargame for 1–2 players, designed by Gregory M. Smith and published by Compass Games. Built upon the successful Tide Series game engine introduced in Imperial Tide and Pacific Tide, it recreates the entire American Civil War from 1861 to 1865 in a fast-paced evening of play.

Each turn represents one year of the war and consists of multiple card-driven activations. The hallmark of the system is its unique card re-buy mechanism, forcing players to carefully decide which cards to purchase again for the following campaign season while balancing production and military priorities.

The game features infantry, cavalry, artillery and historical leaders, while naval warfare is abstracted through blockades and key amphibious operations. Every decision has operational and long-term strategic consequences.

A major addition introduced in Rebel Tide is the Political Track, representing potential British and French support for the Confederacy. Diplomatic success may even allow an early Confederate political victory. Historical leaders possess varying abilities that directly affect combat performance and post-battle exploitation.

The game also includes a well-integrated Solitaire Bot, providing an engaging solo experience without excessive bookkeeping.

Highlights

• Acclaimed Tide Series strategic system.
• Complete American Civil War campaign in one evening.
• Innovative annual card re-buy mechanic.
• Resource, leadership and political management.
• Integrated Solitaire Bot.
• Medium complexity (4/10 by Compass Games).

Box Contents

• One mounted 22" × 34" game map
• One countersheet (9/16")
• 48 game cards (24 per side)
• Five double-sided Year Cards
• Two Player Aid Cards
• Rulebook
• Two six-sided dice
• Boxed edition

Game Information

Designer | Gregory M. Smith |
Publisher | Compass Games |
Series | Tide Series |
Period | American Civil War (1861–1865) |
Players | 1–2 |
Playing Time | 3–4 hours |
Complexity | 4/10 |
Scale | Strategic |
Time Scale | One year per turn |
Solitaire | Yes (Solitaire Bot) |