The Devil’s to Pay!: The First Day at Gettysburg

About this board game

The Devil’s to Pay!: The First Day at Gettysburg is a two-sided historical battle game for 1–2 players, with play lasting about 240 minutes. It depicts the critical opening hours of July 1, 1863, when Confederate forces advancing toward Gettysburg unexpectedly encountered Union cavalry near Herr’s Ridge.

One player commands the Confederate forces of Lt. Gen. A.P. Hill and Lt. Gen. Richard Ewell, while the other leads the Union forces of Maj. Gen. John Reynolds and Maj. Gen. Oliver Howard. The game explores both the historical events of the first day and what might have happened as commanders made decisions under pressure.

Play takes place on a detailed map of the Gettysburg battlefield designed and drawn by Rick Barber. Each hex represents 250 yards, while formations are represented by multi-counter brigades. Strength Points represent approximately 100 men, and each unit counter depicts groups of regiments arranged according to their historical deployment.

• Chit-pull activation: A unique mechanic keeps players engaged and creates uncertainty throughout the battle.
• Blind Swords system: This implementation emphasizes ease of play and accessibility while retaining the family’s spirit of historical chaos.
• Historical battlefield setting: Recreate the clash between advancing Confederate brigades and Buford’s hard-pressed Union cavalry before relief arrived.

In The Devil’s to Pay!, maneuvering, fighting performance, and leadership all contribute to the unfolding battle. The result is a tense examination of the decisions and unexpected encounters that set the tone for the entire three-day Battle of Gettysburg.