A proposed board game depicting the conflict known as The Troubles in Northern Ireland has drawn criticism for its portrayal of a deeply sensitive period in the region’s history. The game, titled “Troubles: Shadow War in Northern Ireland 1964-1998,” allows players to assume the roles of various factions involved in the conflict, including security forces, the IRA, loyalist paramilitaries, and nationalist or unionist politicians.
Outrage Over Historical Representation
Details of the game, created by Connecticut-based Compass Games, sparked outrage in Northern Ireland and among victims’ rights groups despite not yet being available for purchase. Players utilize dice, tokens, and a deck of 260 cards to navigate the complexities of the conflict.
Kenny Donaldson of the South East Fermanagh Foundation voiced concerns, stating, “They’re oversimplifying what is a very complex issue,” and adding that many would feel it “has the effect of minimizing their suffering.” Donaldson further questioned the appropriateness of such a game, drawing a parallel to a hypothetical similar game about the September 11th attacks.
Enduring Legacy of Conflict
Critics also point to the game’s potential to overlook the lasting impact of The Troubles on Northern Ireland today. Donaldson emphasized, “The core failure of this initiative is the lack of understanding that ‘the Northern Ireland Troubles’ are not past tense, they remain inextricably linked with Northern Ireland society today.”
Compass Games is currently accepting preorders for the game at a price of $85 (£63.20). Company founder and president Bill Thomas told the Guardian that the game is still under development and will undergo further playtesting. He stated, “This is not the final version. It’s not even close to being final.” Thomas also asserted that the intention behind the game is “to protect history, not to make fun of it.”
The game’s mechanics allow paramilitaries to choose between attacking or collaborating with security forces, while political factions can opt to support terrorism, participate in elections, or pursue power-sharing agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “The Troubles?”
The Troubles was a nearly 30-year ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland that spanned from the late 1960s to 1998. It involved Irish republicans and loyalists, and the British state.
Who is Kenny Donaldson?
Kenny Donaldson is a representative of the South East Fermanagh Foundation, a victims’ rights group, who has publicly criticized the proposed board game.
What is Compass Games’ response to the criticism?
Bill Thomas, founder and president of Compass Games, stated that the game is still in development and will be playtested, and that the intention is to “protect history, not to make fun of it.”
As the game moves through development, will Compass Games address the concerns raised by victims’ groups and ensure a respectful and nuanced portrayal of this complex historical period?
