ICE ICE Baby - Manassas

Good things come to those who wait.  That certainly rings true with the latest addition to the wargame collection.  That latest acquisition is Iron Crown Enterprises' (ICE) 1981 release of Manassas: A Wargame of the First Battle of Bull Run.  To my knowledge, Manassas was ICE's only historical release and being quite rare is highly sought by collectors.  Often asking prices for Manassas are in the USD$100 to USD$200 range.  For some ACW boardgame aficionados, Manassas is a game high on the list of Holy Grail games.

Coversheet from ziploc edition

From my research, Manassas came in three versions encompassing two editions.  The first edition initially sold as a ziplock with the coversheet shown above.  The second, first edition game boxed but having the same components as the ziplock version.  The second edition came boxed with double-sided counters and rules' clarifications.  I would like to get my hands on the second edition rules.  Neither Web-Grognards nor Boardgame Geek have these amendments.  

The Manassas is a regimental game recreating the First Battle of Bull Run containing 320 large, 5/8" x 3/4" counters and two wonderful, period-flavored maps making a 36" x 48" five-color playing area.  Rulebook, charts, and tables round out the components.  

Rulebook, charts, and tables

Game Counters

Given the map size and the low number of counters, the game looks imminently playable with low counter density.  Although the counters are slightly larger than the hex, this will not likely affect play due to the low counter density.  Counters appear hand drawn as do the charts and tables.  Very nice effect.  With units at the regiment and battery level, 15 minute turns, and 135 yards per hex, this is a true tactical refight.

Map section

The visual centerpiece of the game is the map.  Appearing had drawn like the counters, the map is a gorgeous rendition of the battlefield in a period evoking style.  At more than 35 years old, the game produces a visual treat for even today's most discerning eye.

Evidently, Manassas was once sold at the Visitor's Center at the Manassas National Battlefield Park.  Research suggests that a reduced game map is available for a sale in the bookshop.  Next trip to D.C., I will need to confirm such for myself.

Finding an unpunched copy of this rare game produces a conundrum for me. The difficult decision is whether or not to punch the game.  In my younger days, I would immediately open a game and set about punching and clipping the counters.  Today, I hold off until I am certain the game will see action on the table.  Well, that does not always hold true!  I often tear into a new game with great gusto with hopes of getting it onto the gaming table.  With a rare item such as this, perhaps a more deliberate approach is needed. 

Punch or not; that is the question.