Decision: Iraq, designed by Joseph Miranda, is a game that
emphasizes the fight against the insurgency in Iraq, which began in 2003
following the US-led invasion of that country. Historically, the quick
US-Coalition victory over Saddam Hussein’s military forces in March of that
year quickly degenerated into an insurgency that swept the country. The
situation was eventually turned around, but only after a steep learning curve
for the United States and its partners. The game shows some of the major factors
involved.
There are two players in the
game: The Insurgents (who want to seize control of Iraq. These represent
various Iraqi Rebels and Foreign Fighters, the latter including Al Qaeda and
Iranian support, among others), and the Counterinsurgents (who want to restore
stability to a democratic Iraq, as well as defeat any Al Qaeda elements which
may be operating in the country.) These represent Multinational (MNF) forces
(US and allies) and Iraqi Government Forces (which also include friendly Iraqi
tribal militias).
Both players have a set of
pieces that represent conventional and unconventional forces. During their
respective turns, players move their pieces amongst the spaces on the map, and
engage in various kinds of conflict in order to destroy enemy forces. The
objective for each player is to establish control over Iraq.
One unique feature of the
game is that units’, as they engage in combat, effectiveness may increase or
decrease as they gain experience in fighting, or become demoralized.
The game includes one map
(22x34”) and 228 counters.