Every once in a while, something shows up in the mail that reminds you why you love this hobby so much. This week, that moment came in the form of two outstanding historical wargames sent to me by Neva Wargames, and I want to start by saying how genuinely humbled and grateful I am for the opportunity.

Neva Wargames reached out and sent these titles along, and I don’t take that lightly. Independent publishers putting trust in content creators is what keeps this hobby growing, and I’m excited to put both of these games on the table, on camera, and in front of the Cardboard Commander community.

If you enjoy thoughtful, well-designed games that deliver real historical tension without requiring a full weekend to play, these are going to be right up your alley.

Check them out here! Tell Them Cardboard Commander sent you!

Iwo Jima: Hell on Earth

Few battles in World War II carry the weight — both historically and emotionally — of Iwo Jima. Iwo Jima: Hell on Earth tackles that subject head-on, presenting players with the brutal realities of one of the Pacific Theater’s most infamous campaigns.

This game focuses on the grinding nature of the fight: limited space, entrenched defenders, and relentless pressure on attacking forces. Every decision matters. There are no easy victories here — only hard choices and costly advances.

What immediately stands out is how the game balances accessibility with tension. You don’t need a massive rulebook or an entire room full of tables, but you still feel the weight of command. This is exactly the kind of design that shines in solo play while remaining engaging for players who want to explore historical decision-making rather than just roll dice and push counters.

This one is absolutely getting a full unboxing and multiple playthroughs. There’s a lot here to unpack, both mechanically and historically.

Sea & Steel: Columbus’ Voyages

Switching gears entirely, Sea & Steel: Columbus’ Voyages takes us back to the Age of Exploration, offering a thoughtful and often tense look at Columbus’s expeditions and their consequences.

This is not just a game about ships moving across a map. It’s about risk, uncertainty, and competing perspectives. Players are constantly balancing ambition against danger, progress against resistance, and survival against overreach.

What I really appreciate about this design is how it invites reflection. It’s strategic, yes — but it’s also narrative-driven. You’re not just trying to “win”; you’re navigating a historical situation filled with unknowns and consequences. Games like this spark conversation at the table, which is something I always value.

This one feels tailor-made for gamers who enjoy history as much as mechanics — and I’m looking forward to seeing how different strategies play out across multiple sessions.

What’s Coming Next on Cardboard Commander

🎥 Unboxing Videos
Both games will be featured in upcoming unboxing videos where I’ll walk through:

• Components
• Maps and counters
• Rulebooks and setup
• First impressions from a wargamer’s perspective

🕹️ Playthroughs & Table Time
After unboxing, I’ll be getting both titles on the table for playthroughs, sharing honest thoughts about how they play, where they shine, and what kind of gamer will enjoy them most.

If you like watching games unfold in real time, talking through decisions, and seeing how rules actually function in play — this is for you.

👉 Be sure to check out and subscribe to the Cardboard Commander YouTube channel so you don’t miss the videos as they drop:
https://www.youtube.com/@cardboardcommander