I have to say, like any other Grigsby games, this is a rich experience. I really think Gary hit the right central Civil War themes with his focus on leadership, initiative, and scouting/spotting. There are many subtle interweavings. It is a particular pleasure to play while reading "The Civil War: A Narrative" by Shelby since the characters gain flesh from the book.
My only critique would be that the reactive moves make it pretty impossible (typically) for the rebs to launch any offensive actions.. let alone invade the North.
But other than that I think this gem probably got a bit lost in the shuffle due to it's very novel design. A very properly novel design IMHO. Contrast it to War in the East which on the surface at least plays to very well known wargaming conventions and therefore probably had an easier uptake. War in the East is an easier "start" than GGWBTS but I wanted folks who have been on the fence to considerate giving GGWBTS the time it deserves.
Treefrog has kindly offered to play me PBEM. So now I will near learn humility having conquered the AI
It really is a very unusual game. Maybe too innovative to win the big sales. But a great design.
