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Board Game on Northern Ireland's Troubles Sparks Controversy

1/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The proposed board game "The Troubles: Shadow War in Northern Ireland 1964-1998" has sparked controversy in Northern Ireland.
Compass Games developed the game, which allows scenarios involving the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and British security forces.
Critics such as Kenny Donaldson, a victims' rights advocate, argue it oversimplifies the conflict and retraumatizes survivors.
The designer Hugh O’Donnell says the game aims to educate players about the Troubles.

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Story summary

The proposed board game "The Troubles: Shadow War in Northern Ireland 1964-1998" has sparked controversy in Northern Ireland.
Compass Games developed the game, which allows scenarios involving the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and British security forces.
Critics such as Kenny Donaldson, a victims' rights advocate, argue it oversimplifies the conflict and retraumatizes survivors.
The designer Hugh O’Donnell says the game aims to educate players about the Troubles.